The Packard Proving Grounds in Shelby Township will present “Albert Kahn and Packard: Getting the Packards on the Road,” as part of its Historical Series at 1p.m. March 16.
This engaging event that’s sure to be a treat for anyone passionate about history, architecture or automotive innovation will explore how Albert Kahn’s architectural genius shaped Packard’s sales and service buildings between 1907 and 1930, structures that were functional and integral in defining Packard’s brand.
Albert Kahn was a pioneer among architects whose modern industrial designs can be seen in everything from office buildings and banks to city structures like the Belle Isle Aquarium and several factories.
As part of its historical speaker series, Heidi Pfannes and John Cole will discuss Kahn’s influence on Packard and its buildings, which played a crucial role in defining Packard’s reputation.
They weren’t just service centers.
Khan carefully designed spaces that projected sophistication and exclusivity, much like the cars they housed.
“Kahn understood that Packard’s customers weren’t just buying cars; they were investing in a legacy of quality and innovation,” said Mary Anne Demo, executive director of the Packard Proving Grounds. “His dealerships reflected that prestige, making them just as iconic as the automobiles themselves.”
Tickets are $5 for not-yet members and free for members.
The Packard Proving Ground Historic Site is at 49965 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township.
A view of one of the buildings at the Packard Proving Grounds, many of which were designed by Albert Kahn, who will be the subject of an upcoming speaker series March 16 at 1 p.m.
(FILE PHOTO)
It’s befitting the Sparkle Network’s Comedy Night on Feb. 8 at the Emerald Theater is held annually around Valentine’s Day, since it conjures up feelings that are both heartbreaking and heartwarming.
“We have four charities that will benefit this year,” said Moe Lietz of Rochester Hills, founder of the Sparkle Network and one of four comedians including Chris Young, Justin Divozzo and Diego Attanasio performing.
Every year since Lietz and her troupe of comedians started doing the event a variety of charities throughout Macomb and Oakland counties have benefited from the fundraiser.
One such charity is the Great Lakes Burn Camp.
Moe Lietz
While it’s heartbreaking the incidents that bring a child to attend the camp, it’s a joy to see how the summer experience, supported by a corps of volunteers including firefighters and other first responders, fosters healing, self-esteem, confidence and general well-being for burn-injured children.
It’s also heartwarming to know proceeds from Comedy Night will help to support this mission to provide unconditional love and acceptance for the campers.
“Last year we raised $6,500,” said Lietz, who started the Sparkle Network as a way of supporting local causes and to support signature events and programs for young people including its Dream, Believe and Do Scholarship, which will also receive a portion of the proceeds from Comedy Night.
The scholarship is given to high school seniors in Macomb and Oakland counties who have completed 40 hours of community service and have a dream they believe in.
Diego Attanasio
The other two charities benefiting from #Heartbreakers Comedy Night include:
Susie Q’s Kids: Comfort Bags for Kids — The nonprofit works to support the mental health and well-being of children in the community through a variety of services that include creating comfort bags that feature panda bears, blankets, socks and other essential items for children in hospitals, hospice, shelters, foster care, grief centers, schools, camps or wherever there might be a need. The group also serves as an advocate for suicide awareness and prevention and individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities.
Meadowbrook Center for Learning — Based in Rochester Hills, Meadowbrook Center is a nonprofit dedicated to removing barriers to learning, fostering life success for all individuals and promoting community awareness and understanding of learning challenges such as ADHD, dyslexia and autism.
Besides being a great fundraiser it’s a hoot-of-an-opportunity to treat your Valentine to a fun night out.
Tickets for are $30 each.
This includes the show and a brown bag of snacks, plus the infamous Comedy Night swag bag.
However, Lietz encourages buying them as a couple ($50 pair) or a group of 8 ($300 dinner and table on main floor), unless you’re the outgoing kind who enjoys meeting new people.
“We seat everyone by tables,” she said. “So, I have to play matchmaker every year to those who buy only one ticket.”
The Emerald Theatre is at 31 North Walnut St., Mount Clemens. For more information visit sparklenetwork.org/.
The Sparkle Network will present its annual #Heartbreakers Comedy Night benefitting four charities at 7 p.m. Feb. 8 at the Emerald Theatre in Mount Clemens. Photo courtesy of Sparkle Network
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