Michigan Central launches, A New Casual Dining Bistro in Washington Township & More News From Last Week

Get up-to-date on the biggest local headlines including a limited-edition apparel line in support of Parkinson’s research, a renovation of Atheneum Suite Hotel in Greektown, and more.
393
Newlab at Michigan Central. // Photograph by Brian Ferry, courtesy of Michigan Central

Michigan Central launches with opening of Newlab Detroit in the Book Depository Building

The headquarters of Newlab Detroit opened on April 25 in the Book Depository Building, marking the official launch of Michigan Central. Newlab is expected to aid in that transformation by attracting startups, entrepreneurs, engineers, and scientists building companies to the city.

Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson’s and Born In Detroit collaborate on limited-edition apparel line

The line, Team 23, is exclusively available on the foundation’s website and features a wide variety of items including a tote, beanie, and both knit and snapback hats, along with clothing for men and women. A portion of the proceeds from these sale of the items in the line will benefit the foundation and their important work spreading awareness of and funding research for Parkinson’s Disease.

Joe Vicari Restaurant Group launches causal dining bistro in Macomb County

The new sit-down bistro, Andiamo Bistro offers the same great Italian cuisine sold at other Andiamo locations, but in a more laid-back atmosphere and with more affordable prices. Dishes include build-your-own-pasta, personalized flatbread pizzas, paninis, and much more.

Operation Ghost Rider distracted driving initiative has begun

Michigan State Police, along with several police departments and sheriff’s offices in metro Detroit, will be watching more closely for distracted driving. Under Michigan law, first-time offenders get a $100 fine while $200 fines are levied for repeat-offenders.

Atheneum Suite Hotel in Greektown to undergo major renovation

The renovation is being overseen by St. Clair Shores design firm Olon Interior and includes work on the hotel’s lobby, bar, restaurant, and all 173 guest suites. The project is slated for completion sometime in May.

Middle schooler safely stops school bus after bus driver loses consciousness

Dillon Reeves, a 7th grader at Carter Middle School in Warren, brought the school bus he was riding in to a stop after the driver lost consciousness at the wheel, when the bus was on Masonic Boulevard near Bunert Road. Reeves was described as “a hero” by City Councilman Jonathan Lafferty.

Gourmet waffle restaurant to open in Detroit’s Avenue of Fashion

Waffle Café Detroit is set to open on June 1 and will offer more than 45 different gourmet options including classic Belgian and French toast along with more unique options such as bacon, egg, and cheese waffle burritos and the loaded baked potato waffle. Ice cream and custard, along with vegetarian, vegan, and seasonal options are also available.

Bills aims to establish five new state holidays in Michigan

A package of bills introduced by Democratic legislators would make Diwali, Vaisakhi, Eid al-Adha, and Lunar New Year official, state-recognized holidays. Emgage Action Michigan, a human rights advocacy group, say the bills are “an exciting development for the state.”

New upscale restaurant to open in West Bloomfield

Ciao Italian Bistro & Wine Bar has new ownership and will reopen as Aurora Italiana sometime this summer. This new upscale restaurant will offer menu options inspired by the Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri in Italy.

District Detroit project to receive $615M in tax incentives from state board

Michigan’s economic development board approved the incentives on April 25. The $1.5 billion project will see the development of 695 mixed-income residential units, 1.2 million square feet of office space, 100,000 square feet of retail and 467 hotel rooms across 10 properties in and around the downtown Detroit area.

Rochester Hills hopes state grant will help the city acquire green space

The Rochester Hills City Council has voted to send a grant application to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund to ask for funds to help the city acquire the undeveloped 9.38-acre property on Rochester Road. They hope the city can use the space to connect Rochester Road to the Clinton River Trail.

Martha Reeves looks back at the life of Harry Belafonte

The Motown legend sat down with CBS News Detroit to reflect on the life and work of the late entertainer and Civil Rights leader. Belafonte died in of congestive heart failure on April 25 in his New York City home at the age of 96.

Grand Haven named one of best small beach towns in the U.S.

Travel website Trips to Discover ranks the lakeside Michigan city as a place to visit for a quaint summer getaway. It is the only Midwestern spot on the list, which includes locales such as Carmel-by-the Sea, California; Tybee Island, Georgia; and Provincetown, Massachusetts.


Want more reads delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for the Hour Daily newsletter today