The Vision for West Riverfront Park Begins To
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Issue 4 • Spring 2018 THE VISION FOR WEST RIVERFRONT PARK BEGINS TO TAKE SHAPE n April 10, the Detroit This design competition was made and free yoga RiverFront Conservancy possible by the leadership of the Ralph and Tai Chi joined Mayor Duggan, C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation. Other classes. This General Motors and organizations around the country are year’s Shimmer the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. taking note of the unique way we infuse on the River OFoundation to announce the winner community dialogue into the design pays tribute to of the West Riverfront Park Design process. The images we presented in Karen and Competition. Michael Van Valkenburgh early April represent the intersection Matthew Cullen, whose vision, and Sir David Adjaye have joined together of world-class architecture and the dedication, and leadership have to present a vision for the park that will heart and soul of our community. been the driving force behind the have a profound impact on our city and transformation of the riverfront since As our vision for the West Riverfront on the lives of Detroiters for the next the inception of the Conservancy. takes shape, we embark on our busiest century. It will also be a beacon for And we are hosting our first camping year of construction since 2004. The our region, welcoming families from event on the Dequindre Cut in May. former site of a cement factory will Southeast Michigan and beyond. soon be transformed into Atwater We are incredibly grateful for the As we undertake one of the most Beach. This fall, we will break ground positive response to this work and for significant public space projects our on the Uniroyal Promenade, which will the support of our community. Thank city has ever seen, we have also set complete the RiverWalk from Cobo Hall you for helping us making the riverfront a new standard for how community to the MacArthur Bridge to Belle Isle. a world-class gathering place for all. engagement can lead design. The field Our calendar of special events and trips we took with our Community programming remains robust. Popular Mark Wallace Advisory Team have been described favorites return, including GM River Days, President & CEO as “setting a precedent for community Reading & Rhythm on the Riverfront Detroit RiverFront Conservancy led architecture” by ArchDaily. SHIMMERHereHere ON ComesComes THE RIVER 2018thethe SunSun On June 21, Shimmer on the River features a 60s theme and will provide guests with a VIP preview of GM River Days before it opens to the general public. The event will feature live music from BeatleMania Live!, as well as retro-inspired drinks, mouth-watering dishes and free, unlimited carnival games and rides. WHAT IS SHIMMER? HONORING KAREN AND involved,” said Matthew. “We’ve created something that is uniquely Detroit and Shimmer on the River is the Conservancy’s MATTHEW CULLEN which represents the great diversity of largest annual fundraising event and At this year’s Shimmer event, the Detroit Detroit and the Metro area.” celebration. All proceeds are used to en- RiverFront Conservancy is excited to sure that the Detroit Riverfront remains honor Karen and Matthew Cullen, In 2002, the mission of developing the a clean, safe and beautiful gathering Conservancy chairman and principal Detroit Riverfront seemed daunting place for the community. It also serves of Rock Ventures and CEO of Jack and many didn’t believe it could be as a preview of GM River Days. Entertainment. Matthew and his wife done – but Matthew and Karen saw Karen have been instrumental in transformation of the Detroit Riverfront At this year’s event, people of all ages transforming the riverfront. as a way to change negative percep- will be treated to an unforgettable night tions of the city. For that of music, performance art, scrumptious reason, they helped found the food and games. Hundreds of guests Detroit RiverFront Conservancy are anticipated, including business and in 2003 with the vision of community leaders, families and young converting the riverfront professionals. Everyone is welcome into a system of parks and to attend! community spaces for every- At every Shimmer on the River, one to enjoy. the Shimmer Award is presented “The Detroit RiverFront during a brief program to a company or Conservancy and the River- individual demonstrating extraordinary Walk are near and dear to us commitment to the revitalization of both,” said Karen. “Matthew Detroit’s riverfront. The Shimmer Mark Wallace, Nolan Finley and Matthew and I, as well as our three Award, which is a one-of-a-kind glass Cullen at the 2017 Shimmer boys who all grew up while bowl, is the highest honor that the Matthew and Karen are proud of the riverfront was going through its Detroit RiverFront Conservancy can what the Conservancy and the Detroit transformation, have a special place in bestow. Past recipients include General community have accomplished over our hearts for the riverfront. We love Motors, Governor Jennifer Granholm, the past 15 years. “The project is a real that families can enjoy it every day.” Senator Carl Levin, David K. Page legacy of collaboration for everyone and more! 2 CORPORATE SPOTLIGHT BECOME AN EVENT PARTNER! STRATEGIC STAFFING Is your business looking for a way to give back to the Detroit SOLUTIONS community? Every year, the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy looks This year’s Shimmer on the River is for companies in the Detroit area to sponsor some of their major presented by Strategic Staffing Solutions events, such as Shimmer on the River. These events are aimed to (S3), one of the largest staffing firms in further the mission of the Conservancy and draw newcomers to the United States and a Shimmer the riverfront. supporter since the very first event. “With the help of community businesses, the Conservancy is able “We believe in supporting the communities where to host its most important fundraising events to build awareness we live and work,” said Laura Hughes, vice president, of its projects and continue development along the riverfront,” communications & community at S3 and a member said Cassie Brenske, chief development officer at the Detroit of the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy’s Board of RiverFront Conservancy. Directors. “The Conservancy is transforming the Detroit Riverfront into one of the most beautiful The Conservancy offers nine different levels of sponsorship, ranging international riverfronts in the world.” from $2,500 to $30,000. Each level provides the sponsoring partner with a number of benefits, such as VIP reception admis- S3 was founded in Detroit in 1990 by CEO sions, logo visibility, branding opportunities, meet-and-greet with Cindy Pasky, who served on the Conservancy featured performers and other acknowledgments. Sponsoring is Board for eight years. While S3 has since expanded a great way to increase brand recognition while contributing to throughout the United States and Europe, it remains rooted in Detroit. the transformation of Detroit. “The Detroit Riverfront is one of the best places in For more information on sponsorship levels and Detroit to enjoy outdoor activities,” said Laura. It benefits, contact Cassie Brenske at the Detroit draws in one of the most diverse crowds you’ll see RiverFront Conservancy at (313) 566-8267 or and the energy is contagious!” [email protected]. Shimmer on the River is a celebration of everything that has been accomplished along the riverfront. Put on your grooviest tie-dye threads and prepare to travel back in time in the most fabulous fashion. We hope to see you there! INTERESTED IN BECOMING A SPONSOR? Get involved with one of these great events! • Camp Out On The Cut • Shimmer On The River • Busk on the Cut • Dequindre Cut Freight Yard Opening • GM River Days • Soiree on the Greenway • Riverfront Run • Moonlight Yoga • Riverfront Relaxin’ • Kids Fishing Fest • Harvestfest Detroit 3 SPRING AND EARLY SUMMER ON THE RIVERFRONT EXCITING EVENTS AND NEW SPACES TO EXPLORE Winter is behind us, so it’s time to get revved up for another exciting season of programs and events along the riverfront. The Detroit RiverFront Conservancy works hard to plan and coordinate fun activities for the community, and we’d like you to be a part of them! DEQUINDRE CUT FREIGHT manages. Register before May 9th YARD GRAND OPENING for a discounted price at detroitriverfrontrun.com/registration. Celebrate the grand opening of the Dequindre Cut Freight When: June 9 with 8:40 a.m. Yard—which features nine and 9 a.m. starts repurposed shipping containers— Where: Detroit RiverWalk and with food trucks, local vendors, the Dequindre Cut music and a biergarten. KIDS FISHING FEST When: May 19 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Free) Children up to age 16 can learn to fish from the experts while RIVERFRONT RUN enjoying the beautiful Detroit Put on your running shoes and River. This family-friendly program come out to support the Detroit includes basic fishing instruction, RiverFront Conservancy! This 5K snacks, prizes, arts and crafts, a and 10K run and walk event is a DJ and hands-on activities. fun and healthy way to explore (Free) the Detroit Riverfront. Proceeds When: June 10 from Noon to 3 p.m. benefit the Conservancy and all Where: Milliken State Park the public spaces the non-profit 4 SPRING AND EARLY SUMMER ON THE RIVERFRONT SHIMMER ON THE RIVER 12TH ANNUAL GM Coming Soon: Look for the Detroit’s favorite family fun fair RIVER DAYS and carnival is returning this Kick off summer and experience schedule for the Campbell June! Shimmer offers guests a all that the Detroit Riverfront has Terrace Performance Series VIP experience and a sneak to offer on land and in the water. (every Wednesday evening Enjoy live music, carnival rides, preview of GM River Days while this summer) and for benefitting the Detroit RiverFront games, Detroit’s best food, Riverfront Relaxin’ Movies Conservancy.