Edition No. 84
In our 84th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share the Pointe’s Arts Festival event featuring art, music and food for the whole family; and EAT Detroit food and drink event is set to embrace Detroit!
Arts and Culture
Pointe’s Arts Festival returns featuring art, music and food!
Community and Family
Now in its second year, EAT Detroit food and drink event is set to embrace Detroit!
Pointe’s Art Festival
Sponsored by the Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce
For two full days, join the Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce for a celebration of art, music and food! The Pointe’s Art Festival will take place August 6-7, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at The Hill Municipal Lot (41 Kercheval Ave, Grosse Pointe Farms). The event is $5 for adults and free for kids.
Kid friendly activities featuring the Part of Your World Princess event, Grosse Pointe Zoology, and a Kids Art Tent presented by Posterity Gallery.
Guests will also enjoy food and drink selections by Atwater, Ferlito’s Food Truck, Batter Up Waffle Company, Flavors Food Truck and Aruba Freeze. Featured entertainers include The KufflinsKs, Anthony Retka, Uncle Brown and ME, GG Music and more!
The event will feature 25 artists. For more details, check out the button below!
Detroit’s culinary scene will be on full display for an evening benefiting an area nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of Detroit’s neediest citizens
Now in its second year, an evening of food and drink is set to embrace Detroit. EAT Detroit 2022 is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 3!
EAT Detroit showcases the city’s diverse culinary scene with a one-of-a-kind experience benefiting underserved citizens, all in one night. People can enjoy the chef’s featured dishes, craft drinks, live musical entertainment, at more than 20 restaurants, all in the name of helping the initiatives of SAY Detroit that provide housing, food, medical care, education, and more to Detroiters in need at any age.
Folks can order up to six tickets and will wear a wristband, visit a restaurant, eat and drink until they’re full or the event ends at 9:30 p.m.
Tasting menus include three specialty dishes and one signature drink at each restaurant. Alcohol-free refreshments will be available as well. Strolling waitstaff and self-selected starting restaurants, along with recommended routes, will keep traffic flowing and eliminate long lines.
SAY Detroit, founded by Mitch Albom, improves the lives of Detroit’s neediest citizens through shelter, food, medical care, volunteer efforts and education. It is an umbrella organization for ongoing major projects, like Working Homes / Working Families and the SAY Detroit Family Health Clinic. Learn more at the button below.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 83
In our 83rd edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share GPAA’s Where've You Been, an exhibition featuring Focus photography group of the Scarab Club; and Music on the Plaza, the Parade of Packard’s car show and family fun at Detroit’s Beacon Park all kick off this weekend!
Arts and Culture
GPAA presents Where've You Been, an exhibition featuring Focus photography group of the Scarab Club.
Community and Family
Music on the Plaza, Parade of Packard’s car show and family fun at Detroit’s Beacon Park happening this weekend!
Where’ve You Been
Featuring Focus photography group, presented by the Grosse Pointe Artists Association
Where've You Been, an exhibition including the work of 13 members of the Scarab Club Photography Group, is on display now through August 18 at the Grosse Pointe Artists Association gallery. Each month, the group selects a location to photograph followed by a critiquing session where fellow artists can analyze one another’s works. Meetings include discussions based on the practice of image making from a fine art perspective of the medium. Popular locations include Cranbrook, Belle Isle and the Detroit Public Library. They also recently had their first theme -- "Night."
For nearly fifty years the Scarab Club has hosted a photography group that served as a place for Detroit area photographers to meet and share information about fine art photography. The Scarab Club is happy to announce that the photography group will be reintroduced as Focus. With a mission to expand and nurture the perspective of photographers from the community.
You can view Where've You Been in person at the Grosse Pointe Artists Association gallery at The War Memorial, now through August 18. Visit the link below for additional details and visitation times.
Looking for more summer fun in metro Detroit?
Check out a few upcoming events geared toward music aficionados, car enthusiasts, and families!
Close to home, Music on the Plaza continues at The Village in Grosse Pointe. It is billed as live music performances in the heart of the Pointes. July 21 features Arizona Son with Devin Scillian. The following week, July 28, is Uncle Brown and ME. Thursdays in August include The Kufflinks, Marge's Bar Band, and Mainstream Drive, Aug. 4, 11, and 18 respectively. Bring your blankets or chairs to The Village for the free performances beginning at 7 p.m. It is located at 630 St. Clair Ave. More details on musicans and dates, visit www.thevillagegrossepointe.org.
Welcoming guests back for another weekend of entertainment, Selfridge Military Air Museum and Motor City Packard’s is hosting the Parade of Packard’s car show on Saturday July 23. Cars will be on display to the public from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In April of 1917, Henry B. Joy, the Packard Motor Car Company President, donated his Joy Aviation Field to the U.S. Army to establish a flying school for military aviators as the U.S. entered World War I. The military base, located in Harrison Township, was later renamed in honor of Thomas E. Selfridge. Entry to the Parade of Packard’s is free with museum admission. More details can be found at selfridgeairmuseum.org.
The following day in Detroit is Beacon Park’s 5th anniversary celebration. From 1 to 5 p.m. July 24, the community will gather for a family fun day. The afternoon features live entertainment, a bounce house, birthday treats, an arts & crafts booth for children to design birthday cards, and much more. A special sustainability tent will also be set up to provide education and activities reflecting Beacon Park’s commitment to sustainability through composting demonstrations and information on how attendees can support these efforts in their own backyard. The park is located at 1901 Grand River Ave. in Detroit. To learn more about the celebration, check out visitdetroit.com.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 82
In our 82nd edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share the 5th annual Detroit Festival of Books celebrating goodwill efforts to help generate a deeper love and appreciation of books; and a celebrated centenarian: former WAC member, grandmother of War Memorial employee turns 100!
Arts and Culture
The 5th annual Detroit Festival of Books celebrates goodwill effort to help generate a deeper love and appreciation of books.
Community and Family
Celebrated centenarian: former WAC member, grandmother of War Memorial employee turns 100!
Detroit Festival of Books
The 5th annual Detroit Festival of Books, also known as Detroit Bookfest, is dedicated to promoting the joy of reading and the rich culture surrounding it.
July 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the festival is at Eastern Market in Detroit, located at 2934 Russell St. It is free to attend and will take place in Shed 5.
Feature vendors will sell a variety of books from used, rare, antiquarian, unusual, ephemera and more. Additionally, vinyl records, comic books, creative arts, vintage board games and more will be sold.
The festival is a goodwill effort to help generate a deeper love and appreciation of books. Vendors will keep 100% of their proceeds. An Official Bookfest Afterparty down the street at Eastern Market Brewing Company is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. A Bookfest Bash will also be held inside Bea’s Detroit from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Barbeque will be available at Detroit Bookfest from Delray Barbecue, and ice cream from Treat Dreams.
It’s a time of celebration for the family of an employee at The War Memorial!
July 11, Jennie Woods DeAngelis celebrated her 100th birthday. Now living in Ormond Beach, Florida, she resided in Michigan for many decades after World War II. In the 1940s, Woods DeAngelis was chosen to represent North Dakota as part of the Women’s Army Corps, or WAC.
"We asked her what the secret is to being 100 years old and she said ‘David, I haven’t worried about anything for 40 years.’ She’s sharp as a tack and having a conversation with her is amazing,” her grandson, David DeAngelis, said. DeAngelis is the director of facilities and campus operations at The War Memorial.
During the war, she was an original member of the WAC, with one woman representing from each state in the U.S. This came prior to Hawaii and Alaska being added as states.
Her brigade landed on Omaha Beach in Normandy, France in the summer of 1944, a few weeks after Allied forces arrived on June 6.
Next May, Les Braves II: At Water’s Edge is expected to be officially and formally dedicated on the grounds of The War Memorial Association in Grosse Pointe Farms. The 50-foot-wide and 25-foot-tall sculpture is the official world-wide twin of the original Les Braves in Normandy, France — located in the Vierville-sur-Mer on Omaha Beach at the junction of dog red and easy green sectors.
Read more about Jennie Woods DeAngelis at the button below!
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 81
In our 81st edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share details about the upcoming performance by the Navy Band Great Lakes in honor of Navy Week July 11-17; and The Selfridge Air National Guard Base Air Show and Open House kicks off this weekend featuring high-flying performances from teams across the country!
Arts and Culture
Navy Band Great Lakes to perform for one night at The War Memorial in honor of Navy Week July 11-17.
Community and Family
The Selfridge Air National Guard Base Air Show and Open House kicks off this weekend featuring high-flying performances from teams across the country.
Navy Band Great Lakes to appear for one night at The War Memorial in honor of Navy Week
Coinciding with Navy Week Detroit, the Navy Band Great Lakes Wind Ensemble will perform at 7 p.m. from the lakefront back lawn at The War Memorial on July 13.
Navy Week is slated for July 11-17. During the week, over 50 Sailors from across the fleet take part in the service’s signature outreach program.
“How Navy Week is different than Fleet Week is, in Fleet Week a ship will arrive and Sailors will get off the ship and take over the town in a positive way, doing community outreach events,” Musician First Class Carl Schulte said. “A Navy Week does the same thing, but we try to bring the Navy where ships cannot go. Places where there’s not a lot of Navy exposure.”
Schulte has been in the Navy Band Great Lakes since September 2020 where he plays trumpet. He also is the band’s tour operations coordinator.
Pride in Service has been the theme for Navy Band Great Lakes for more than a century. From 1911, when the band first formed, to 1917, when Lieutenant Commander John Philip Sousa served as Bandmaster, its music represents the pride and professionalism that is synonymous with the United States Navy.
The band, based in Great Lakes, Illinois, consists of instruments like clarinets, trumpets, trombones, tuba, saxophone, flute, and a percussion section.
Speaking about what the public can expect from the performance, Schulte commented folks will see active-duty Sailors in uniform, displaying plenty of patriotism.
“In a lot of ways, we’re the keeper of tradition,” he said. “Music tends to be that and elevates tradition and elevates the ceremony. We’re trying to inspire patriotism in those who are there.”
Navy Band Great Lakes provides musical support for communities of all sizes as well as supporting Navy recruiting in an 11-state area of responsibility stretching from Michigan to North Dakota. The wind ensemble is comprised of 30 professional musicians under the direction of Lt. Christopher Cornette. The Wind Ensemble's repertoire consists of symphonic band works, patriotic music, Americana, and featured solo vocal and instrumental selections.
In addition to appearing at TWM, the band will appear at places like The Detroit Zoo, Eastern Market, Greenfield Village, River Raisin National Battlefield Park, and more during Navy Week.
The concert is free and all are welcome. Due to construction and parking limitations, advanced registration is requested for this performance. Folks can register at the link below.
Celebrating The Next Century Of Flight
The general public will soon have a chance to check out some of the work done at metro Detroit’s hometown air base! The Selfridge Air National Guard Base Air Show and Open House is set for July 9 and July 10, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with free admission.
The two-day show attracts high-flying performances from teams across the country. Some performers include:
Air Combat Command F-22 Demonstration Team
U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III Demo
U.S. Army Golden Knights
MH-65 Dolphin
A-4 Skyhawk
The weekend also features ground displays like the F-18 Hornet “Top Gun” experience and High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle. This year’s theme is The Next 100 Years.
Selfridge, in Harrison Township, is one of the oldest continuously operating military airfields in the nation. The first flight on what was then called Selfridge Field took place on July 8, 1917. The base has been in continuous use ever since.
Learn more about the air show at the link below.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 80
In our 80th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share Sue Majewski's handmade stained-glass mosaic signifying her love for The War Memorial; and our community partner The Family Center and its dedication to offering accessible programs and resources from local experts aimed at building strong families.
Arts and Culture
Sue Majewski shares her love of The War Memorial in a handmade stained-glass mosaic for an art competition.
Community and Family
The Family Center offers free programs and resources from local experts aimed at building strong families.
A local woman has taken her love of The War Memorial to a new level with art
Sue Majewski, of St. Clair Shores, depicted The War Memorial in a handmade stained-glass mosaic for an art competition crafted by the Grosse Pointe News in 2021. The piece, titled “Grosse Pointe War Memorial,” is 3 feet wide and 4 feet tall. After exhibiting it in The Scarab Club earlier this year, it was accepted into the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center’s 2022 Fine Arts Competition. The competition opened June 17 and Majewski’s piece will be on display through Aug. 18.
It took her over 200 hours to create the mosaic piece.
“Community is the biggest word,” she commented in response to what TWM means to her. “My sister was married here, I’ve attended weddings, baby showers, everything over the years. It’s home to me.”
Majewski’s experience with TWM goes beyond simply attending events over the years. Majewski was part of a Grosse Pointe Youth Council in her early teen years while a student at Grosse Pointe South High School, the council oversaw the Battle of the Bands in the Fries Auditorium at TWM.
In addition to the mosaic being on display, Majewski has created a line of greeting cards with the mosaic on the front cover.
For more details about Majewski’s piece in the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center’s 2022 Fine Arts Competition, visit the link below.
The Family Center is now reaching more families than ever before
For Jennifer Bingaman, the most enjoyable aspect of being part of The Family Center is daily seeing some kind of difference made in the community.
Bingaman is the executive director of The Family Center of Grosse Pointe and Harper Woods, a nonprofit community organization that calls The War Memorial home.
The Family Center, established in 2000, offers free programs and resources from local experts on a wide range of topics aimed at building strong families and helping parents raise children who will become competent, caring, and responsible community members. It was founded by registered nurse and social worker Diane Strickler on the premise that knowledgeable and skilled parents foster capable, healthy, and responsible young people.
The Center, which operates from an office in the media wing of TWM, provides resources and preventative education to empower families to successfully navigate life’s social, emotional, and physical challenges. It offers a variety of free programs including family fun events, mindful meditation and movement, drug and alcohol abuse prevention, suicide prevention, and mental health and family dynamics.
Bingaman said The Center’s services have expanded exponentially over the years to now including in-person and virtual programming.
“We used to do all in-person programming, pivoted like everyone else during the pandemic to virtual and found we are getting so many more people looking at our virtual content than would ever show up to a program,” she noted. “We’re reaching many more people now.”
Earlier this year, The Center was the recipient of two grants totaling $75,000. The grants are for mental health support and substance abuse prevention in schools.
The Center’s signature fundraising event, Hollyfest, is planned for Nov. 17 at The Fred M. Alger Center for Arts, Culture, and Humanities.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 79
In our 79th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share The Grosse Pointe Artists Association’s next show theme Lost and Found highlighting artwork from recycled/found objects; and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and The Henry Ford team up to present Salute to America back at Greenfield Village.
Arts and Culture
The Grosse Pointe Artists Association announces Lost and Found as its next show theme featuring artwork from recycled/found objects.
Community and Family
Detroit Symphony Orchestra and The Henry Ford team up to present Salute to America at Greenfield Village.
CALL for ENTRIES: Lost and Found
Deadline Wednesday, July 6
The Grosse Pointe Artists Association (GPAA) is excited to announce Lost and Found as its next show. For this exhibition, artists are asked to create artwork from recycled/found objects. A found object as defined by The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is an object that was not originally designed for an artistic purpose but is repurposed in an artistic context. As an example, Jean-Michel Basquiat was a master of using found objects in his artwork, from chairs to refrigerator doors.
The juror for this event is Sean Bieri, co-founder of The Hatch arts organization in Hamtramck. Bieri is particularly well suited to jury this show because of his experience working on the restoration of Hamtramck's Disneyland and his love of Dada, an art movement of the European avant-garde in the early 20th century.
Let freedom ring: fireworks, concert highlights ‘A Salute to America’ at Greenfield Village
In partnership with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, The Henry Ford proudly presents Salute to America at Greenfield Village. New this summer, guests will begin their evening by walking through Greenfield Village at their own pace, listening to musical ensembles perform across the venue. At dusk, strolling elements will pause and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra will take center stage on the Village Green for a triumphant musical performance in celebration of Independence Day. The evening will end with a stirring “1812” Overture performance, cannon fire and a brilliant fireworks finale.
Performances are scheduled from June 30 - July 3, from 5 to 10 p.m. General Admission tickets are $32.25 for members and $38 for the public. The experience includes holiday theming and decade vignettes, featuring 1876 Centennial activities, 1976 Bicentennial picnic, a military fife and drum parade, summer street food, cold treats and craft beer.
This is the first time a full Detroit Symphony Orchestra has performed at Greenfield Village since 2019.
As summertime celebrations kickoff, fireworks displays are set to commence around the Grosse Pointe community. St. Clair Shores fireworks extravaganza is June 24 at Veterans Memorial Park, located at 32400 Jefferson Ave. On June 27, Ford Fireworks will blast off from Detroit. The theme this year is “Hey Detroit! The Sky Shines for You.”
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 78
In our 78th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share our exciting summer lineup of concerts and performances on the back lawn of the historic Alger House; the 2022 Legacy on the Lake event honoring Fred M. Alger; and Jazzin' at the Vanity kicks off its two-day jazz blues (and a bit of funk) festival, featuring live performances on The War Memorial stage!
Arts and Culture
Join us on the breathtaking back lawn of TWM this summer for concerts and performances!
Community and Family
Jazzin' at the Vanity and Legacy on the Lake kick off summer events highlighting exciting TWM partnerships.
Summer concerts and performances return to The War Memorial
A variety of performances are set to grace audiences on the lakefront back lawn of The War Memorial this summer.
The action kicks off June 23 at 7 p.m. when Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and More will be performed by the Listeso String Quartet, part of the popular Candlelight events. A second act follows at 9:15 p.m. The Quartet will return to The War Memorial July 21. Tickets are $35. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the start time and late entry is not permitted. The age requirement is 10 years old or older and anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Whether you’re looking for a beautifully unique classical music performance or a romantic candlelit experience, this concert is for you. Join the musicians for an evening gently illuminated by candlelight, and prepare to be taken into the clouds with some of the most treasured classical masterpieces!
The Soul of Detroit featuring Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, and More will be performed by PureSoul Detroit on June 30 at 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. A July Soul of Detroit appearance is also set for July 28 at 7 p.m. Tickets for these performances are also $35.
PureSoul, a diverse collective of world-class musicians proving rhythm and romance, never go out of style. Devoted to living the electrifying musical history of soul, jazz and the early days of rock ‘n roll, PureSoul celebrates decade-spanning legends like Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, Miles Davis and Duke Ellington by bringing their hits to life from coast to coast.
For four nights only, Opera MODO presents The Wedding Singer at The War Memorial. This story is set in 1985 and revolves around Robbie Hart, a rock star wannabe, who sings at weddings, his failed relationship with his former fiancée, and his romance with a new love, Julia.
Shows are scheduled at 7:30 p.m. July 7, July 8, July 12 and July 14 on the back lawn. Tickets, available through Opera MODO, are $60 for VIP adult, $40 for general admission adult, and $20 for general admission student.
Also in July, Shakespeare in Detroit: A Reading of The Tempest comes to The War Memorial. Set for July 10 at 3 p.m., an abbreviated version of the play will be read by the theater company's performing members. Shakespeare in Detroit is the city's premiere classical company, having pioneered the first-ever park performance of the Bard in a city park. The pioneering organization has been featured on the BBC, NPR, and several additional local and national platforms.
General admission tickets are $40 and include one beverage. Student tickets, with an ID, are $15 and also include one beverage. There will be a full cash bar. Non-alcoholic beverages will be available.
The summer performing arts scene at The War Memorial wraps up with an appearance from the Grosse Pointe Symphony Orchestra on Aug. 3 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors over age 60, $5 for college students, and children in grades kindergarten through 12th grade are free. The program features selections like Williams: March from Superman, Holst, arr Jacobs: Suite No. 1 in Eb, and Holst: A Fugal Concerto.
To learn more and for ticket information on all events, visit warmemorial.org/arts.
Jazzin' at the Vanity
Presented by Jefferson East, INC.
Jazzin' at the Vanity kicks off this weekend, June 18-19. It takes place in the Jefferson Avenue Business District in Detroit. Hours are noon to 9 p.m. June 18, and 1 to 7 p.m. June 19.
This year, The War Memorial is thrilled to be a sponsor! Join us as we celebrate the amazing heritage of the Jefferson-Chalmers neighborhood and that of the Vanity Ballroom during this free two-day jazz blues (and a bit of funk) festival featuring live performances on The War Memorial stage! Guests will enjoy delicious food, crafts, visual art experiences, activities for children and so much more!
Artists set to appear on The War Memorial Stage include headliners award-winning Detroit saxophonist James Carter and Grammy-winning group Ghost-Note. Additional artists include:
The Louis Jones III Quartet
Jessica Care Moore
Marion Hayden Legacy Ensemble
Drew Schultz
Tosha Owens
Allen Dennard
T-Bone Paxton/RJ Spangler Septet
Charles Etcherson & This Way Outtt
Perry Hughes' OGD Ensemble
Michael Zaporski & Future Visions
Brandon Williams
For more information, check out the button below.
Legacy on the Lake
Presented by the Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce
An incredible man with a passion for The War Memorial has been named the 2022 Legacy on the Lake honoree. The Grosse Pointe Chamber Foundation is excited to announce Fred M. Alger as the recipient! This year’s event will take place on June 23, from 5:30 –10 p.m. at the Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores.
Alger and his generous $20 million donation were the driving force behind The Fred M. Alger Center for Arts, Culture, and Humanities. The 25,000 square foot facility, located next to the historic Alger House, is set to open in fall.
Alger is a prominent member of the Alger Family and founder of the Wall Street firm, Alger Management.
“I am incredibly moved by the sense of adventure and can-do attitude of The War Memorial and am honored to play a role in supporting the legacy of my ancestral home and writing the next chapter of possibilities,” Alger previously said.
To learn more about Legacy on the Lake and to purchase tickets, visit the button below.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 77
In our 77th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share Pride Month celebrations resuming in cities and towns throughout metro Detroit after a two-year hiatus; and the return of Campville USA for kids and teens at The War Memorial!
Arts and Culture
June is Pride Month! Celebrations are steadily resuming after a two-year hiatus in cities and towns throughout metro Detroit.
Community and Family
Campville USA is back at The War Memorial! Join us for a variety of day camps offered from June 20 to Sept. 2.
Communities gather to celebrate Pride Month
June is Pride Month, when the world's LGBTQ+ communities come together and celebrate the freedom to be themselves. The original organizers chose this month to pay homage to the Stonewall uprising in June 1969 in New York City.
Today, Motor City Pride is Michigan's largest pride celebration with over 40,000 participants in its pride events. Motor City Pride is an entirely volunteer run organization with a mission of spreading awareness through pride. This year’s festival and parade return to Hart Plaza June 11-12. The festival includes four performances stages, 14 different food vendors and food trucks that will be selling a wide variety of foods from vegetarian items, noodles, chicken, burgers, and hot dogs. These booths will also have soft drinks and water available for purchase.
GP Pride by WE GP
Grosse Pointe Pride by Welcoming Everyone Grosse Pointe (WE GP) will be held on Saturday, June 18, from 12:00 - 2:30 p.m. in Grosse Pointe Village at the corner of Kercheval and St. Clair. Participants are encouraged to bring friends, neighbors and leashed and friendly Pride pups along for this family-friendly event.
Join GP Pride for a short march, music, activities for children, a selfie station, activism opportunities and so much more! WE GP encourages participants to bring your signs, your joy, your pride, and your commitment to full equality. Additionally, The War Memorial is hosting a Pride Month collaboration between The Family Center and WeGP. Join us for a free one-hour of yoga with Nicole Castka, E-RYT 500 certified yoga instructor on our back lawn for Pride Month! For more details and to register, visit www.warmemorial.org/communityevents/prideyoga.
Celebrations are steadily resuming after a two-year hiatus in cities and towns throughout metro Detroit. There are several events dedicated to celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, including learning about its history, and supporting community vendors. Check out the following links to learn more about participating communities: Detroit Free Press, Detroit MetroTimes, Detroit News.
Summer day camps return and offer diverse activities and education for youth
Campville USA at The War Memorial is all about creating summertime memories for kids and teens. A variety of day camps are offered from June 20 to Sept. 2. Classes include Mad Science, Young Rembrandts, Bilingual Playhouse, self-defense and more. This year’s summer camps marks the first in-person Campville since 2019.
Fifteen camps will be offered in an 11-week span. Each camp has its own schedule, ranging from one-day to one-week engagements.
“Summer is an exciting time for kids to learn new skills, delve deeper into a passion, or just enjoy a new activity,” Leah Celebi, TWM vice president of community engagement and programming, said. “With such an assortment of programs, Campville USA has a camp that will pique kids’ interests or entice them to explore something new.”
Campville USA offers a full spectrum of activities, from arts and fashion to science and self-defense. The War Memorial’s diverse programming is sure to appeal to varied interests of children and teens throughout the summer, ensuring that no one misses out due to vacation plans.
Campville USA is open to the public! Everyone is welcome- there are no residency requirements and membership is not necessary. All Campville USA activities are held at The War Memorial. To learn more and to register for any of the camps, visit the link at the button bellow.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 76
In our 76th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we dedicate both sections to the Grosse Pointe Artists Association’s extensive art-based opportunities available to community members, programming for veterans, and its long-standing partnership with The War Memorial!
Arts and Culture
The Grosse Pointe Artists Association presents Spring Break featuring Birmingham Society of Women Painters (BSWP).
Community and Family
The War Memorial highlights its long-standing partnership with the Grosse Pointe Artists Association!
Spring Break
The Grosse Pointe Artists Association (GPAA) is proud to host Spring Break, a show by the the Birmingham Society of Women Painters (BSWP). The exhibit will highlight art by some of the most talented artists in the Birmingham/Bloomfield, Michigan area.
For more than fifty years, the BSWP has brought together artists of merit to further their shared interests. Founded in 1944 to provide formal instruction and workspace for women painters, the BSWP today is a dynamic organization of 50 artists working in diverse media. The BSWP is proud of its exceptional history of supporting the achievements and leadership of women in the arts.
The show was juried by Kim Fay, a well-known artist, teacher, and journalist.
You can view Spring Break in person at the GPAA gallery at The War Memorial, now through June 18.
Partnership remains vibrant between Grosse Pointe Artists Association and The War Memorial
‘We are here to use art to bring people together’
At The War Memorial, we are continually inspired by our friends and resident partners of the Grosse Pointe Artists Association (GPAA) and its extensive art-based opportunities available to community members and programming for veterans. GPAA provides a diverse offering of art classes lead by high caliber instructors, exhibitions to celebrate local artists and inspire new talent, programming to engage and educate the general public and more.
The Association, which has about 100 members, has had many homes, with its first being at TWM. After years of moving from one commercial space to another, GPAA returned to TWM six years ago.
“We’re very excited because this is very gallery-like and the artists are really thrilled,” GPAA President Karen Pope said in describing the GPAA Gallery at TWM.
GPAA began in 1927 when a group of artists organized a juried exhibition at a local club. Soon after, the Association began offering art classes, and by 1942 the American Federation of the Arts listed GPAA in its American Art Annual.
“We’ve expanded to support The War Memorial in its goal of being a cultural center,” Pope said. “We are here to use art to bring people together.”
It is a nonprofit totally dependent on the talents and generosity of volunteers and donors, who are dedicated to sharing their love for art by merging creativity and community.
Recently, a $10,000 legacy grant was awarded to the Association from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation. It will be used to upgrade lighting in the gallery. Additional advancements set to be made in the Avalo Brown Petri Art Studio room utilized by The Association include replacing window shades and the installation of a new sink.
Its next art show runs from June 9 to July 14 inside the GPAA Gallery at TWM. The title is Worlds Collide, also known as the hybrid challenge. For this show, artists are challenged to combine two seemingly discordant ideas into one finished artwork. The goal is to discover the unexpected when opposing forces occupy the same physical space.
“Worlds Collide is totally new work, whereas other exhibitions aren’t,” Pope said. “Artists see a topic, go through their files and see what they can work on. It will probably be the most dynamic and current exhibition we’ve had.”
Each Wednesday, from June 1 to June 22 at the studio, the Association hosts a Crash Course in Collage with Marat Paransky. Classes are from 5 to 8 p.m. Students will learn to cut and paste materials, prepare different surfaces, mounting techniques and finalize and finish projects. Necessary supplies include acrylic matte gel medium, grafix double tack mounting film, archival polyvinyl acetate and more.
Also in June, on the 11th and 18th, the Association presents Drawing Foundations with Donald Cronkhite. It is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. In these two sessions, award-winning artist and experienced instructor Donald Cronkhite gives students the drawing foundations they need to move forward.
From her perspective as president, Pope said the creative process gives Association members and artists the greatest joy.
“The process is a cycle and to complete that cycle, you really need to show your art to someone,” she mentioned. “Exhibitions and getting artists together are essential.”
In the spring, artwork from the Birmingham Society of Women Painters was on display in the Friends of the GPAA gallery, situated in the hallway leading to the GPAA Gallery at TWM. About eight art shows are held a year at TWM.
Additional art classes include Art making for Veterans on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and A Morning Out for seniors meets from 10:30 a.m. to noon on the first and third Tuesdays of the month.
Learn more about GPAA by visiting its website at grossepointeartcenter.org.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 75
In our 75th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share the DIA celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month with cultural presentations featuring AAPI artists based in Southeast Michigan; and TWM resumes its annual in-person Memorial Day service to recognize, reflect, and to pay respects to veterans, military members, and their families.
Arts and Culture
DIA celebrates Asian Pacific American Heritage Month with cultural presentations featuring AAPI artists based in Southeast Michigan.
Community and Family
The War Memorial resumes annual in-person Memorial Day service to recognize, reflect, and to pay respects to veterans, military members, and their families.
Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Cultural Presentations at the DIA
Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) artists based in Southeast Michigan come together Saturday, May 28, to showcase their work informed by the traditions of their ancestral homes and their lived experiences in America. The presentations will feature Korean-American choreographer, Joori Jung, in collaboration with traditional Korean pansori artist Eun-oh Shin and electronic musician Joo-won Park, uses movement, music, and metaphor to explore where we’ve been and where we hope to go. Jenny Mualhlun and Mary Hniang share their experiences as 1.5-generation Burmese Americans and how they found their sense of belonging in the middle ground.
Musicians from the Morin Khuur Center in North America demonstrate the iconic Horse Head Fiddle, a symbol of Mongolian national identity that has been making recent waves in contemporary music. Xiao Dong Wei mixes classical Chinese Instruments with rock and roll and Sakura Japanese Instrumental Group & Great Lakes Taiko Center: Raion Taiko shares the magnificent and powerful sounds of Japanese musical instruments through songs composed by Yamada Mizue.
With introductory remarks by Senator Stephanie Chang and Representative Padma Kuppa as well as DIA Director, President and CEO Salvador Salort-Pons and other DIA staff and auxiliary members. Emceed by Fox 2 Detroit news anchor, Roop Raj.
This event is free and open to the public. Purchase tickets at the button below.
Patriotism remains strong as annual Memorial Day service returns to in-person celebration
The War Memorial is proud to once again offer in-person celebrations to honor our community’s veterans, military service members, and their families with special programs and events leading up to Memorial Day. Both Our Community Salutes kicking off tomorrow, May 26 and the annual Memorial Day Service on Monday, May 30 will provide a time for community members to come together to recognize, reflect, and to pay respects to veterans, military members, and their families.
The War Memorial’s week of service and honor culminates in a solemn hour of remembrance during our traditional Memorial Day Service at 10 a.m., back in-person on the grounds of the historic Alger House. This moving ceremony takes place on the lakefront lawn of The War Memorial as we honor and remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.
This year’s Memorial Day event will feature a moving performance of the United States national anthem; remarks from War Memorial leadership; a keynote address from brigadier general and Board Member Rolf Mammen; and will conclude with a moment of solemnity, featuring a bagpipe rendition of Amazing Grace performed by local musician Mary Beth Nicholson.
The reading of the names of fallen Grosse Pointe service members from all military branches will also be included.
“We are humbly honored to once again welcome the community to this time-honored and important ceremony, the first in person ceremony since 2019” said The War Memorial President and CEO Charles Burke. “The foundation of our institution is built on the names engraved on the walls of the historic Alger house. It’s a privilege and duty to bear witness to the lives lost and pause as we reflect on their collective sacrifice.”
Also participating are members of the Grosse Pointe Veterans Club, Motor City Brass Band, Blue Star Mothers Lake Erie Chapter, the Grosse Pointe Veterans Garden, the American Legion Grosse Pointe Post 303, JROTC Osborn High School Honor Guard, along with local Boy Scout Troop 96.
The Memorial Day Service is free, open to the public, and attended by hundreds of members of the community. Guests are welcome to experience the service from their boats. Pre-registration for this year’s ceremony is required; seating and parking will be limited.
All Memorial Day Celebrations will be held at The War Memorial, located at 32 Lake Shore Drive in Grosse Pointe Farms. For more information on Memorial Week as a whole, guests can visit www.warmemorial.org/memorialday2022
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 74
In our 74th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share details about the new CANVS Interactive Street Art app allowing mural enthusiasts the ability to identify specific Detroit murals and artists; and our upcoming Our Community Salutes Detroit ceremony recognizing and celebrating area high school seniors who are soon enlisting in the Armed Forces following graduation.
Arts and Culture
CANVS Interactive Street Art allows mural enthusiasts the ability to use smartphones to identify specific Detroit murals and artists.
Community and Family
Our Community Salutes Detroit ceremony recognizes and celebrates area high school seniors who are soon enlisting in the Armed Forces following graduation.
New app developed to track Detroit art murals
Like many cities across the country, Detroit’s canvas is interwoven with murals far and wide. They are admired by many which led a group to curate a new app to help track them.
According to a recent article in The Detroit News, the City’s office of Arts, Culture and Entrepreneurship announced a new partnership with art technology company CANVS to identify all of the art on the city's walls and eventually create a digital map on the city's website. CANVS Interactive Street Art will allow residents, tourists and other mural enthusiasts the ability to use their smartphones to identify specific murals and the artist.
CANVS provides a more accessible way to connect with the art and the city. Detroit’s mix of eclectic murals, from Sydney James' "The Girl With the D Earring" on East Grand Boulevard to Desiree Kelly's mural inspired by her daughter at Meijer Rivertown Market.
The CANVS initiative is co-sponsored by the Ford Foundation and is part of ACE’s contribution to Mayor Duggan’s Blight to Beauty campaign.
To download the app, go to wherever you purchase apps and search for "Canvs Street Art."
To read the full Detroit News article, click the button below.
A salute to high school seniors
Our Community Salutes Detroit returns to an in-person ceremony for the first time in three years. The reception begins at 6 p.m. May 26 at The War Memorial’s historic Alger House, with a ceremony following at 7 p.m. The ceremony recognizes and celebrates area high school seniors who are soon enlisting in the Armed Forces following graduation.
The ceremony includes the presentation of the General Colin L. Powell Service Award, comments from Brig. Gen. Scott Hiipakka and Dr. Steven P. Bucci, with musical selections from the Motor City Brass Band.
This longstanding enlistee recognition ceremony is free and open to all who feel compelled to witness a stirring commitment to service. Online registration is required for all enlistees and guests.
The General Colin L. Powell Service Award will be presented to one or more high school guidance counselors from Michigan schools that best exemplify a counselor’s support of young adults in making their individual educational and career choices in high school and upon graduation.
OCS was established in New Jersey in 2009. Today, its chapters exist in over 23 states, and Puerto Rico and conducts over 30 ceremonies annually. For more information about OCS, check out OurCommunitySalutes.org.
To learn more and to register for this year’s OCS at TWM, visit www.warmemorial.org/ocs2022.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 73
In our 73rd edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share a new online exhibition featuring works from Broadway's Golden Age; and The War Memorial’s next evening with Executive Chef Joe Paxton, celebrating spring in Michigan with local food and wine at the Alger House.
Arts and Culture
New online exhibit You'll Be Swell! You'll Be Great! features works from Broadway's Golden Age. Photo credit: Ballerinas Ruth Falkin
Community and Family
The War Memorial’s Executive Chef Joe Paxton is set to celebrate spring in Michigan with local food and wine at the Alger House!
Online exhibit celebrates the Golden Age of Broadway
NPR recently shared an article featuring a new virtual art exhibition celebrating theater, movies and television with original sketches by Broadway set and costume designers, and paintings and drawings of shows and theaters.
Helicline Fine Art's exhibition You'll Be Swell! You'll Be Great! — after the famous lyrics from the musical Gypsy — is the brainchild of theater publicist Keith Sherman, who collects art with his husband Roy Goldberg. Most of the works come from what's considered Broadway's Golden Age, from the 1930s to the 1960s.
You'll Be Swell! You'll Be Great! will be available online through Aug. 31. Read the full article at the button below.
Celebrate Michigan culinary favorites at The War Memorial
With spring weather in full bloom, War Memorial Executive Chef Joe Paxton is set to celebrate spring in Michigan with food and wine. The event begins May 20 at 6:30 p.m. at The Alger House in Grosse Pointe Farms.
Paxton has gathered recipes featuring local ingredients and dishes. Throughout the evening, guests will indulge in delectable dishes that highlight the flavors and heritage from our Great Lakes State. From chef’s mother’s house rolls to a crisp glass of wine from Leelanau Peninsula, this culinary experience is sure to encompass the essence of pure Michigan.
“The great State of Michigan is often overlooked in terms of agricultural prowess however, I find that when you look closely there is a thriving culture of farmers and producers quietly curating some of the best food around,” Paxton said.
The evening will feature a multi-course dinner interspersed with personal remarks by Paxton highlighting the inspiration and preparation of the meal. Dinner guests will also enjoy hearing from chef's brother, Nick Paxton, of Michigan-based Joli Cochon Farms and our wine expert from Great Lakes Wines and Spirits. This wine dinner experience features both the multi-course dinner and selected wine pairings and are included in the ticket price. Joli Cochon is located in East Jordan, a Michigan destination where the famed Jordan River meets Lake Charlevoix and is ran by owner-operator Nick Paxton.
During the evening, guests will hear and enjoy hand-selected wines from Great Lakes Wines and Spirit, who proudly services all 83 Michigan counties.
The menu includes bread service, a four-course meal with Leelanau Raclette, Michigan Ramp and Potato Soup, Red Elk and Chanterelle Mushroom Pastie and Strawberry Rhubarb ‘Bonut’ Sundae.
To register, click the button below!
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 72
In our 72nd edition of Inspired Thoughts, we celebrate National Military Appreciation Month, recognizing and honoring all U.S. service members; and details about the award-winning novel coming alive at Redford Theatre in Detroit.
Arts and Culture
May is National Military Appreciation Month recognizing and honoring all U.S. service members. photo credit: national archive
Community and Family
An award-winning novel comes alive at Redford Theatre in Detroit.
Celebrate Military Appreciation Month
May is designated as National Military Appreciation Month to recognize and honor all U.S. service members. During the month, Armed Forces Day and Military Spouses Appreciation Day are celebrated and the month culminates with the celebration of Memorial Day.
The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is one of three museums that currently houses the Tuskegee Airmen National Historical Museum. The facility is dedicated to honoring the legacy and achievements of the nation's first All-Black air fighter squadron.
The museum is a repository for the oral and written history of the Tuskegee Airmen and boasts the largest collection of Airmen artifacts in the world. With respect for the past and solid investment in the future, the museum is proud to be a springboard to inspire the next generation of aviators and aerospace enthusiasts through targeted youth programs.
Did you know: The Tuskegee Airmen were awarded 8 Purple Hearts, 14 Bronze Stars, 3 Distinguished Unit Citations, and 744 Air Medals and Clusters for their service in the U.S. military? Learn more at the button below!
The War Memorial is proud to set aside once again an entire week to honor our community’s veterans, military service members, and their families with special programs and events leading up to Memorial Day. Both Our Community Salutes on May 26 and the annual Memorial Day Service on May 30 will provide a time for community members to come together to recognize, reflect, and pay our to respects veterans, military members, and their families.
Award-winning novel comes alive at Detroit theater
The stage adaptation of a 2015 book is being hailed as an honest, unsentimental celebration of the power of love. Peter Ferry’s award-winning novel Old Heart, about an 85-year-old American World War II veteran searching for the Jewish translator he fell in love with, opens May 14 live on stage at the historic Redford Theatre in Detroit.
The play, set in Detroit and the Netherlands during World War II and in 2006, is scheduled on May 14 at 7 p.m. and May 15 at 4 p.m. Directed by Karl King, the stage adaptation of Old Heart is co-produced by Detroit’s beloved Redford Theatre, located at 17360 Lahser Road.
The play tells the story of American GI Tom Johnson who joins forces with 24-year-old Sarah van Praag and the Dutch resistance to smuggle food and supplies from the liberated southern Netherlands across Nazi lines to starving cities in the northern Netherlands. Their brief love affair collapses at the end of the war, and 60 years later Johnson, about to be sent off to assisted living by his family, disappears on a flight to Amsterdam. While his children desperately try to locate him, Johnson is determined to track down Sarah.
This acclaimed novel has garnered a steadily widening readership since its first appearance in 2015. Dave Eggers called the book “astonishing.” The Chicago Tribune says the novel “will stay with you for keeps.” And Publishers Weekly asserts the novel is “life-affirming.”
To purchase tickets or to learn more about the play, visit the link at the button below.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 71
In our 71st edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation’s upcoming exhibition Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume exhibition; and Michigan World War II Legacy Memorial ground breaking ceremony at Memorial Park in Royal Oak.
Arts and Culture
The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation® explores Disney costume design as part of its upcoming Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume exhibition.
Community and Family
Michigan World War II Legacy Memorial breaks ground at Memorial Park in Royal Oak.
Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume
Opens June 25 at The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation®
Disney productions has graced the screens of many households for decades. From iconic princesses to mischievous villains, The Henry Ford will explore how Disney has been present since the earliest days of animation, through innovations in live-action filmmaking, pioneering efforts in television, location-based entertainment and retail, and even gaming. Curated by the Walt Disney Archives, Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume will featuring more than 70 original pieces, including ball gowns, sorcerers’ capes, military uniforms, tiaras, and of course glass slippers, Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume explores the vision, process, and craft used to create the costumes worn by some of the biggest names in entertainment.
Exhibition costume highlights include:
101 Dalmatians (2000) - Cruella de Vill
Alice Through the Looking Glass (2016) - Red and White Queen
Beauty and the Beast (2017) - Belle ball gown, Gaston and Beast
Cinderella (2015) - Cinderella ball gown
Hocus Pocus (1993) - Sanderson Sisters dresses and vacuum
Mary Poppins (1964) - Traveling dress
Once Upon A Time (2017) - Evil Queen and Hook
Pirates of the Caribbean (2003) - Jack Sparrow and Barbossa
This is a limited-engagement exhibition at The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation®. Read more about the exhibit at the button below.
Ceremony held for World War II Legacy Memorial
Earlier this month, the Michigan World War II Legacy Memorial held a groundbreaking ceremony at Memorial Park in Royal Oak. The park is located near 13 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue.
World War II veterans, original Rosie the Riveters, veterans' organizations from across the state, and state and local dignitaries were on hand.
Phase one of construction will begin this spring and should be finished later this summer. This first phase of construction will include laying over 1,200 Walk of Honor paver bricks, installation of the first full-sized statue, installation of the flag poles representing all branches of the service and pouring the footings for the Wall of Stars and future statue scenes.
To learn more about the Legacy Memorial, visit michiganww2memorial.org.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 70
In our 70th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we conclude our "Live at the Alger" series with Kris Johnson performing a special interactive solo concert titled #looptherapy; and share details about Grosse Pointe Restaurant Week kicking of April 26!
Arts and Culture
Kris Johnson to perform a special interactive solo performance titled #looptherapy as the final artist in the "Live at the Alger" house-concert series.
Community and Family
Enjoy delicious foods and great special during Grosse Pointe Restaurant Week kicking of April 26!
Award-winning trumpeter Kris Johnson brings #looptherapy to The War Memorial, concluding the Live at the Alger performance series
Many are familiar with the concept of music therapy, but award-winning trumpeter, composer, and educator Kris Johnson has coined the phrase #looptherapy as part of his arsenal of explorative music.
As the final performer to round out The War Memorial’s Live at the Alger, a series of house-concert style performances, Johnson will introduce #looptherapy to the Grosse Pointe communities on Friday, April 22. Beginning at 7 p.m., the event will dive into Johnson’s enlightening musical process providing listeners with a unique artistic experience.
Johnson uses looping technology on his iPad Pro in combination with the trumpet, flugelhorn, percussion instruments, voice, and more, to create unique textures and grooves as a part of #looptherapy.
“Learning about generational trauma and breaking toxic cycles has been extremely crucial to my personal development in the past few years,” explained Johnson. “The circular nature of trauma has fascinated me, and #looptherapy artistically represents breaking through toxic patterns.”
As an artist, Johnson’s work focuses on music that spans the depth and breadth Black American music. The influences that have shaped his artistry include Terence Blanchard, Thad Jones, Nicholas Payton, Stevie Wonder, Dave Matthews, Clifford Brown, Roy Hargrove, and many others.
Although a young artist, Johnson’s professional career is expansive and includes playing in and arranging for the renowned Count Basie Orchestra; directing the University of Utah Jazz Studies program; composing several musicals, including Jim Crow's Tears and Hastings Street: The Musical; and even produces the Kris Johnson Big Band YouTube series.
“Music is everywhere. Art is everything,” expressed Johnson. “My music is both a reflection of my life as well as an inspiration that guides how I operate day to day.”
Currently, Johnson works as the director of the Michigan State University Community Music School-Detroit and continues his freelance work as a composer and performer. He also teaches through his online platform, “Office Hours with Kris.”
Johnson has appeared on five Grammy-nominated albums and composed the original score for the four-time Emmy-nominated web series “King Ester.”
Guests will enjoy Johnson’s interactive performance combined with storytelling to discover ways in which art can provide healing and reflection in our lives.
“My hope is that by sharing my music, I will inspire others and spark much needed dialogue about the intersection of art, therapy, and quality of life.”
Event details:
7:00 p.m. (pre-glow ticketholders): Pre-glow in the historic 1910 Alger House. Ticket includes one complimentary drink, and delectable light hors d’oeuvres
7:30 p.m. (all ticketholders): Concert in the Alger House library
Full cash bar available throughout the evening. To purchase tickets, visit www.warmemorial.org/arts/liveatthealger-johnson.
Learn more about Jonson at the button below.
It’s restaurant week!
Foodies, are you ready to indulge in some of our local favorites? Grosse Pointe Restaurant Week is nearly here. The Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce presents its anticipated Restaurant Week kicking off April 26 and running through May 1. During the week, visitors can enjoy dinner deals at over a dozen restaurants. In-person dining and carry-out specials will be offered.
Participating restaurants include:
Alma Kitchen
Beyond Juicery + Eatery
The Bricks Pizzeria
Burger Pointe and Wings
Cadieux Café
Cellar 313
Champs Rotisserie & Seafood
Churchill's Cigar Bar & Bistro
The Continental at Ford House
To check out more about Restaurant Week, visit the button below!
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 69
In our 69th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share the GPAA’s next exhibit theme Worlds Collide (aka Hybrid Challenge) and its call for entries; bestselling author A.J. Baime virtually returns to The War Memorial to speak about his new book; and the Atlantic’s Yasmeen Serhan reminds us of the threats to democracy rising within some European Union and NATO member states.
Arts and Culture
The Grosse Pointe Artists Association challenges artists with its next exhibit theme Worlds Collide (aka Hybrid Challenge).
Community and Family
Bestselling author A.J. Baime virtually returns to The War Memorial to speak about his new book, White Lies: The Double Life of Walter F. White and America’s Darkest Secret.
American Democracy
The Atlantic’s Yasmeen Serhan reminds us of the threats to democracy rising within some European Union and NATO member states.
CALL FOR ENTRIES: Worlds Collide, (aka Hybrid Challenge)
Deadline, May 16, 2022
The Grosse Pointe Artists Association is challenging artists with its next exhibition Worlds Collide (aka Hybrid Challenge) which combines two seemingly discordant ideas into one finished artwork. The goal is to discover the unexpected when opposing forces occupy the same physical space. The focus should be on the coalescing of ideas, not mediums.
Steve Miller will be the juror of this exhibit. Miller is an artist, songwriter and graphic artist. He completed his BFA in painting and printmaking at the University of Oklahoma in 1995. After graduating, he spent a decade working as an art director for advertising agencies in Dallas and Chicago, moving to Michigan in 2002. His work has been showcased in art communities throughout Michigan, Texas and Oklahoma. He won the Corrine Maillard Robinson Award in the 38th Annual Michigan Fine Arts Competition at the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center.
Bestselling author talk with The War Memorial shifts to online-only format
On Wednesday, April 20, bestselling author A.J. Baime virtually returns to The War Memorial to speak about his new book, White Lies: The Double Life of Walter F. White and America’s Darkest Secret.
Originally scheduled as an in-person American Democracy event, with an online component, Baime’s discussion will now be online only. The author talk will be on Zoom at 7 p.m.
Released in February to positive reviews in the New Yorker, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and other publications, White Lies is a true story of undercover investigations, political organizing, and racial identity. The book explores the complexities of Walter White’s life and illustrates his lasting impact on American life.
Baime called White the most influential civil rights leader of the first half of the 20th century, “Walter White was a minor character in the last four books I’ve written and every time in my research I came back to him, I found his story got more and more incredible.”
“I’m always excited to come to Detroit and even more so for this book,” Baime said. He went on to explain that White Lies has a Detroit connection through the Dr. Ossian Sweet trials, which riveted the nation in 1925 and 1926. Baime said Sweet was a prominent black physician who, in 1925, moved into a largely white section of Detroit with his wife and 14-month-old baby. On the night that the Sweet family moved into their new home, Ku Klux Clan-inspired mob violence broke out and a man was shot and killed. Dr. Sweet, family members, and friends were charged with murder but successfully defended by a defense team organized by Walter White and including the famous Clarence Darrow.
The 7 p.m. author talk can be streamed to your computer or other device, that option is free, but registration is required. To learn mor eabout Baime, his book or to register for the event, click the button below.
“The Other Threat to Democracy in Europe,”
The Atlantic, April 11, 2022
With the world’s attention focused on Putin’s war of aggression in Ukraine, The Atlantic’s Yasmeen Serhan seeks to remind us all of the threats to democracy rising within some European Union and NATO member states, most notably Hungary where Prime Minister Viktor Orbán was just reelected by a two-thirds supermajority. With a supermajority, Orbán’s Fidesz party can now unilaterally amend the country’s constitution and continue its destruction of Hungarian democracy. In fact, Hungary is now what diplomats and other international relations experts call a “soft” or “competitive” autocracy where elections are held but are not truly free or fair. For more about Hungary, click the button below.
In addition to Hungary, Poland has also been headed down an anti-democratic path. This spring, those two nations could well be joined by France in the event that Marie LePen and her far-right National Rally (formerly National Front) party win that nation’s April 24 Presidential run-off election. For more about France, click the button below.
Michael Montgomery who curates American Democracy content for The War Memorial is a former-US diplomat who, when not working with us, teaches at the University of Michigan-Dearborn.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 68
In our 68th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share The Henry Ford museum’s article exploring what it is about baseball that makes it America’s national pastime; Baseball is back and various Detroit restaurants and venues are gearing up for the Detroit Tigers’ first official home game of the season; and we call your attention to two pieces on the role of baseball, our national game, in American life during World War II.
Arts and Culture
The Henry Ford explores what it is about baseball that makes it America’s national pastime.
Community and Family
Baseball is back! Various Detroit restaurants and venues are gearing up for the Detroit Tigers’ first official home game of the season!
American Democracy
This week, we call your attention to two pieces on the role of baseball, our national game, in American life during World War II.
Baseball: America’s national pastime
With baseball back in action, we look this week at what a metro Detroit museum has to say about how baseball became the national pastime.
This article from the Henry Ford in Dearborn references when in 1867, the city of Detroit hosted the "World's Tournament of Base Ball." The tournament was held at the grounds of the Detroit Base Ball Club during one August week over 150 years ago.
Each summer, Greenfield Village commemorates Detroit’s 1867 tournament with a gathering of teams that play an outstanding weekend of America’s game by the rules of 1867.
Take a look at The Henry Ford’s article below to see just what it is about baseball that makes it America’s national pastime.
Play ball!
The calendar has flipped to April and with it comes the Detroit Tigers home opener and the start of the 2022 Major League Baseball season! The Tigers home opener is April 8 at 1:10 p.m. against the Chicago White Sox at Comerica Park.
Last year’s hometown team finished in third place in the American League Central Division, with a record of 77-85. New additions to this year’s squad include outfielder Austin Meadows, catcher Tucker Barnhart, and shortstop Javier Baez. Manager A.J. Hinch is in his second year of leading the team, a roster that is looking to make it to the playoffs for the first time since 2014.
Check out Detroit Tigers beat reporter Jason Beck’s Opening Day preview of the 2022 Detroit Tigers at the button below.
Looking for things to do around town for Opening Day? The Detroit News recently shared a round up of various restaurants, bars and venues around the city that are hosting exciting events for the Detroit Tigers’ first official home game of the season. Click on the button below to read what locations - within walking distance of the stadium - have in store for the big day! Visit www.detroitnews.com for more details!
Baseball and World War II
This week, we call your attention to two pieces on the role of baseball, our national game, in American life during World War II. The first, considers why professional baseball continued to operate at all during the war years. The second considers the role of amateur baseball in the lives of one particular group of Americans who otherwise had very little to look forward to during the War.
“I honestly feel that it would be best for the country to keep baseball going.” – President Franklin D. Roosevelt
“Should Sports Be Stopped During the War?” National World War II Museum, New Orleans
The National World War II Museum in New Orleans has a nice piece online concerning how, and why, professional baseball continued through the Second World War II. Centered on a 1942 Gallup Poll asking a representative sample of Americans whether baseball should continue, the piece also introduces readers to an archive of wartime polling available through the Museum. For access to the piece on wartime baseball and the other polls, follow the button below.
"Without baseball, camp life would have been miserable” -- George Omachi, World War II internee and, later, Major League Scout
“Baseball Behind Barbed Wire,” National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
The acquisition of a baseball uniform worn by Tetsuo Furukawa during a thirteen game, 1944 all-star series between teams representing the Gila River (Arizona) and Heart Mountain (Wyoming) incarceration camps prompted the Smithsonian Institution to consider role that baseball played in the lives of the 120,000+ Americans of Japanese descent who were interned by the US Government during the War. Seven camps spawned active baseball leagues and four, including Gila River and Heart Mountain, had teams that were permitted to travel for games. For more on World War II baseball behind barbed wire, click the button bellow.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 67
In our 67th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we remember Anne Parsons, former president and CEO of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra; welcome The Elephant of Belfast author to speak at The War Memorial; and share two articles discussing challenges facing Michigan’s public universities.
Arts and Culture
Remembering Anne Parsons, former president and CEO of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.
Community and Family
The Elephant of Belfast author to speak at The War Memorial.
American Democracy
Two challenges facing Michigan’s public universities.
Remembering Anne Parsons, former president and CEO of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra
On Tuesday, March 29, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra announced the passing of DSO President Emeritus Anne Parsons late Monday evening, following a courageous battle with cancer. Parsons, served as President and CEO of the DSO for more than 17 years, from July 2004 to December 20, 2021. Plans by the DSO to celebrate Anne Parsons’ life and legacy are forthcoming.
Before retiring last year, Parsons was the longest-serving executive leader in the DSO’s modern era, and prior to coming to Detroit was general manager of the New York City Ballet. She helped guide the DSO to fiscal stability, along with global acclaim for a series of pioneering digital initiatives after taking the reins in 2004.
Following her appointment at the DSO, Parsons instilled a culture of resilience and financial stability and grew the audience and donor base, all while successfully navigating local and national economic downturns and a global pandemic. Under her leadership, the DSO posted nine consecutive operating surpluses from 2013 to 2021. Parsons was also responsible for bringing two new music directors to Detroit—Leonard Slatkin in 2007 and Jader Bignamini in 2020—and returning the orchestra to national and international prominence through touring and webcasts.
To read more about Ann Parsons’ respected leadership in the orchestra world, visit the link below.
The Elephant of Belfast author to speak at The War Memorial
Inspired by a true story, a novelist is set to give readers greater insight into the tale of events that took place in Northern Ireland during World War II.
S. Kirk Walsh will speak about her debut book, The Elephant of Belfast, April 7 beginning at 7 p.m. at The War Memorial (TWM.) The book was published by Counterpoint Press in 2021. A paperback version will be released April 5.
The event takes place at TWM’s historic Alger House in Grosse Pointe Farms. Walsh will present on her research for the historical novel, why she wrote it, her creative processes, take questions from the audience and sign books.
“I had heard about Denise Austin who inspired the main character of the book, Hettie Quin,” Walsh said. “She is called the elephant angel and it’s a story of a young woman taking care of an elephant during the bombings by the Germans on the city of Belfast.”
Inspired by the true story of Austin, Walsh deftly renders the changing relationship between Quin and her young charge, and their growing dependence on each other for survival and solace.
The Elephant of Belfast tells the tender and harrowing story of a young female zookeeper and the elephant, and what they endure together during the German blitz of Belfast. The novel speaks the tragedy of the times, but also to the ongoing sectarian tensions that still exist in Northern Ireland today.
Growing up in metro Detroit, Walsh said she is looking forward to coming back to TWM and getting a chance to celebrate the book in-person.
“I always knew I wanted to write about Ireland because of my family's connection and this story took me to Northern Ireland,” she said. “It presented a compelling narrative.”
Walsh is a novelist, an editor, and a teacher based in Austin, Texas. The novel has generated praise from The New Yorker, The Christian Science Monitor, and others as well as being selected for several top reading lists.
Book bundle options are $18 for paperback and $24 for hardcover. Bundle options include a copy of “The Elephant of Belfast,” book signing at the event, and a copy of the reading and discussion guide for book clubs from Counterpoint Publishing.
General admission is free but does not include a copy of the book. To purchase tickets, visit www.warmemorial.org/speakers/skirkwalsh. Pre-registration is required.
Two Challenges Facing Michigan’s Public Universities
This week, we call your attention to two recent articles about our state’s public universities from BridgeMICHIGAN. The first explores steep enrollment declines at Central Michigan University while the second argues that Michigan no longer adequately funds its public universities.
“Central Michigan University blames ‘complacency’ for enrollment dive,”
BridgeMICHIGAN, March 29, 2022
In the first article, Bridge’s Isabel Lohman and Mike Wilkinson looked at Central Michigan University’s 43% drop in enrollment from 27,114 students in fall 2012 to 15,465 students in fall 2021. They were careful to note, however, that, “Central is not the only Michigan university facing declines. Eastern Michigan’s fall 2021 numbers are down 34 percent since 2012, and Ferris State, Saginaw Valley and Lake Superior State are all down 29 percent, the data shows.”
According to Jennifer DeHaemers, CMU’s Vice President of student recruitment, her strategy for reversing enrollment declines includes a more aggressive will take a “sales and marketing.” But, according to the article, DeHaemers “does not anticipate CMU will return to 2012 enrollment levels” and believes, “we just need to get to the right size for this institution where we can best serve students.”
“Opinion: Michigan is dead last in Midwest in college funding. That must change,”
BridgeMICHIGAN, February 25, 2022
“Over the past 20 years, the equivalent of nearly $1 billion has been erased from state funding to universities.”
Writing in BridgeMICHIGAN, Grand Valley State University President Philomena Mantella did not mince words, “When it comes to public investment in public higher education in the Great Lakes states, Michigan is dead last. Last in state appropriations per capita for its public universities. Last in inflationary increases. Last in state-funded scholarships. Last when compared to Michigan’s regional neighbors.”
In President Mantella’s view, declining funding levels for Michigan’s public universities have reduced college affordability and undermined our state’s ability to compete for new, future-oriented jobs and investment.
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 66
In our 66th edition of Inspired Thoughts, the DIA presents the 94th Academy Award® Nominated Live Action Short Films; GPAA presents its 6th Annual Promising Artists Exhibition; and we discuss how Supreme Court Justices are selected?
Arts and Culture
DIA resumes tradition of presenting the Academy Award® Nominated Live Action Short Films.
Community and Family
GPAA presents 6th Annual Promising Artists Exhibition.
American Democracy
How are Supreme Court Justices selected?
DIA presents Academy Award® Nominated Live Action Short Films
The Detroit Institute of Arts is proud to resume its tradition of presenting the 94th Annual Academy Award® Nominated Live Action Short Films on the big screen! Viewers can enjoy the films at the Detroit Film Theatre leading up to the televised event this Sunday, March 27.
In order to provide access to the films viewers want to see most—while limiting seating in order to provide distancing and comfort—ticketing will be available for each category as a separate performance on a wide variety of times and dates between leading up to the Academy Awards® presentation this Sunday.
For times and tickets, visit the button below.
6th Annual Promising Artists Exhibition
CALL FOR ENTRIES: Deadline, Monday April 11
The 6th Annual Promising Artists Exhibition is part of the Grosse Pointe Artist Association’s Promising Artists program designed to give current high school students and recent alumni of the program the opportunity to showcase their work and experience the process of participating in a professional, juried exhibition.
Building on his experience in Promising Artists exhibitions, Juror Bryan Wilson began entering gallery shows last year, taking home 2nd place awards in GPAA’s Have Your Say and the Huron Art Collective's Fall Juried Exhibition. A graduate of Cass Technical High School, Wilson is completing his second year at the Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
Assisting Wilson with his jurying duties will be Maria D'Agostini, an experienced gallery manager who has an undergraduate degree in art history and a master's degree in arts administration, both from Wayne State University.
How are Supreme Court Justices selected?
U.S. Supreme Court
Rounding back to a recent discussion of the confirmation of a new Supreme Court Justice to replace the retiring Justice Steven Breyer, now seems like a good time to learn more about the Court and how justices are selected. To do that, we turned to the Supreme Court’s official website.
The Supreme Court site is an absolute treasure trove of information about the Court, its history, its work, the Justices, and even how to visit the Court when you are in Washington -- look for links to that information along the left margin of the page at the link below. With the nomination and confirmation process heating up, however, we’ll point you first to the site’s FAQ section that begins with the question, “How are Supreme Court Justices selected?”
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.
Edition No. 65
In our 65th edition of Inspired Thoughts, we share GPAA’s newest exhibit Black and White; celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with fiddle and mandolin instrumentalist Brad Phillips; and a New York Times article about the Ukraine War shifting the Agenda in Congress.
Arts and Culture
Grosse Pointe Artists Association present's Black and White featuring 54 pieces by 43 artists exploring shades of grays to black. (Photo: Bridge by Lawrence Hamilton)
Community and Family
Live at the Alger performance series celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with fiddle and mandolin instrumentalist Brad Phillips.
American Democracy
“Ukraine War Shifts the Agenda in Congress, Empowering the Center” - New York Times
Black and White
The Grosse Pointe Artists Association’s current exhibition theme is Black and White. This exhibition challenges artists to look at a world without color. From subtle shades of grays to black, the exhibit will feature work ranging from realism to surrealism and abstraction. This exhibition features 54 pieces by 43 artists exploring the mystery of a world without color.
The Juror for this exhibition is Marat Paransky, a sculptor, painter, photographer, and mixed-media artist. Born in Kiev, Ukraine in 1986, his family settled in Metro Detroit in 1997.
You can view Black and White in person at the GPAA gallery at The War Memorial, now through April 28. Viewing hours are 2-6:30 p.m. on Thursdays and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturdays. There will also be a artists forum providing an opportunity for viewers listen to the artists talk about their work at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 3, via zoom. It will be moderated by Mark Zapico of CCS.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with fiddle and mandolin instrumentalist Brad Phillips
The War Memorial (TWM) is excited to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with its next Live at the Alger performer Brad Phillips. The event will take place Thursday, March 17 at TWM’s historic Alger House. Phillips will indulge guests during an evening of storytelling through traditional and original instrumental music.
Identifying primarily as a fiddler, Phillips, is a classically trained violinist and multi-instrumentalist, playing both mandolin and guitar. His show Tales of a Midwestern Sideman explores the broad scope of influences from old-time American music to the various traditions of Celtic fiddling and jazz to tell the autobiographical tale of his journey from fiddler to sideman, to embracing his own creative voice as a singer-songwriter.
“My style is difficult to pinpoint. I'm a classically trained violinist who studied jazz in college, yet I identify more as a multi-genre fiddler than a classical or jazz musician,” explained Phillips. “As a singer-songwriter, I've been told that I match the vibes of James Taylor or John Denver. I've spent most of my music career as an instrumentalist, but the truth is, I've been keeping my singer-songwriter ambitions a secret until recently,” said Phillips.
Audience members can anticipate a wide range of songs and instrumental music on violin, mandolin, guitar, and octave mandolin during Phillips’ performance. There is also a narrative to his show with a lot of storytelling.
“I dive into the tales of the people I've met and the places I've been as a musician over the span of my unique professional path and play the music that I've found along the way,” said Phillips. “Ultimately, my path has led me to my own musical voice, and I'll be sharing some of my original music that is near and dear to my heart.”
In-person and virtual viewing opportunities are available at the link below!
“Ukraine War Shifts the Agenda in Congress, Empowering the Center”
New York Times, March 15, 2022
Over the past two weeks, a growing number of journalists, commentators, and political practitioners have noted that the tragedy unfolding in Ukraine seems to be leading to greater bipartisanship here in the US.
Writing in the New York Times, Jonathan Weisman noted that, “The escalating crisis in Ukraine is upending policy and political thinking on both the left and the right on Capitol Hill, as an immediate threat to the global order and soaring energy prices empower the political center at the expense of the two parties’ flanks.” Weisman, however, noted that significant political potshots were still being taken by Senators and Representatives from both parties. As a result, he was unable to determine whether this is just a lull in partisanship or a movement back toward a more genuinely bipartisan US foreign policy in which politics again stops at the water’s edge.*
The Times article is at the link below.
*In 1948, while pushing the measure that paved the way for US membership in NATO through a reluctant Senate, Foreign Relations Committee Chair Arthur Vandenberg (R-Michigan) coined a phrase that still resonates and, perhaps, sets a standard for our national leadership at this time, “politics stops at the water’s edge.”
Inspired Thoughts is a collection of highly curated content that embraces the spirit and purpose of The War Memorial: arts and culture, community enrichment, leadership, and patriotism.
Derived from the notion that learning from others is the key to success, Inspired Thoughts is meant to shine a light on those making a difference in the world around them. This collection features artists, poets, writers, architects, and every thought leader in-between. Inspired Thoughts is the strongest reflection of what The War Memorial stands for, and what we aim to be.
The content featured on Inspired Thoughts is curated by War Memorial leadership — we also look forward to featuring special guest curators in the near future. If you are interested in providing content for Inspired Thoughts, please email our Communications team at dmurphy@warmemorial.org.