AMY CHESTERTON
BOARD CHAIR
DONNA HOBAN, M.D.
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR
JESSICA T. GREGORY
SECRETARY
AARON TURK
TREASURER
MAUREEN BERNDTSON
SIERRA DONAVEN
RACHELLE ECONOMY
CHARLES HUEBNER
SCOTTIE KNIGHT
RICHARD LUEDERS
SALVADOR MARTINEZ
BRENT OTT
VICTOR T. PELTOLA
JODIE RAPPE, M.D.
NICK RITTS
TERENCE THOMAS
LISA VALLEE-SMITH
KELLY WALSH
MARIA MILLER
PRESIDENT AND CEO
As the year draws to a close, I pause to reflect on what makes The War Memorial so special. The walls of this historic home hold more than history—they carry forward a legacy of service, gratitude, and the strength we find in community.
You can see that spirit everywhere on our campus. It shines through the names etched on our memorial plaques. It lives in the curiosity of a child discovering something new, in the neighbors who gather here to learn, connect, and grow, and in the impactful work of our community partners—all sustained by the generosity of those who believe in our mission.
Since 1949, The War Memorial has endured because of people like you—those who attend, volunteer, partner with us, and give so that others may experience moments of connection and inspiration here.
As you explore the pages ahead in this issue of Live Inspired Magazine, may you be reminded of all that this support makes possible—the laughter of families, the fellowship of our veterans, the joy of shared experiences that bring us together. I invite you to come for a visit, attend an event, and bring a friend. Thank you for being part of The War Memorial’s story and for helping its legacy continue to inspire.
Sincerely,
Maria Miller President & CEO The War Memorial
LIVE INSPIRED MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 ISSUE
EDITORS: Leah Celebi, Brett Pulte
WRITER: Alex Szwarc
ART DIRECTION & DESIGN: Emily Orttenburger
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Inner Circle Photography, unless otherwise noted
SPECIAL THANKS: Grosse Pointe Magazine
LIVE INSPIRED MAGAZINE
IS A PUBLICATION OF
LIVE INSPIRED PRODUCTIONS AT THE WAR MEMORIAL.
Consider supporting The War Memorial with a donation to this year’s Annual Appeal.
For over seventy-five years, The War Memorial has served as a home for the community to gather, reflect, and be inspired. Your generosity ensures this legacy continues for generations to come.
Every gift to our Annual Appeal—large or small— is an investment in a thriving community and makes a difference to the nearly 100,000 people we serve each year.
The 78-year-old Brasie is a regular attendee of War Memorial patriotic programming events like Vet-To-Vet, and Veterans Day Breakfast
The question of why the United States was involved with the Vietnam War is one that Jeff Brasie doesn’t have a good answer to.
“It was labeled to help stop the spread of Communism running through southeast Asia, which probably was originally thought that way,” he said.
In the 1970s, Brasie was assigned to the Secretary of the Navy’s public affairs staff, which meant that he had an office in the Pentagon, the headquarters of the Department of Defense.
Recalling how his assignment to the Pentagon came about in May 1971, Brasie said one day an envelope was addressed to him, ordering him to go there to be interviewed.
When he started at the Pentagon, May Day demonstrations against the Vietnam War were underway. The protest resulted in over 12,000 arrests.
“The Pentagon was surrounded by demonstrators, and I remember my commander and I were looking out the front window toward the National Mall,” he said. “There were thousands of demonstrators and gobs of National Guard. He said ‘we should have gone in and won the war, or the way it was played, just left.’”
Most of Brasie’s duties in public affairs involved being a watchdog of the press, putting together briefing books for the secretary which included what the media were saying about him across the country, and even internationally. Additionally, Brasie would write speeches and press releases.
“They were looking for somebody with experience in journalism but there was a report in there by the FBI for a security clearance,”
This year’s breakfast is on Nov. 11
“The War Memorial, in the last three years, has gone back to its roots,” he said. “I can see a concentrated effort to recognize veterans.”
Brasie, of Grosse Pointe Woods, grew up in Alpena, graduating from Alpena High School in the mid-1960s. Enlisting in the Navy in February 1971 with a bachelor’s degree in hand, he underwent basic training at Naval Station Great Lakes in Illinois.
As The War Memorial’s yearlong Vietnam War Commemoration Celebration comes to a close, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all who took part in our public programs. Your engagement has helped honor the service and sacrifice of those who served during the Vietnam era, fostered meaningful reflection and understanding of the conflict, and strengthened intergenerational bonds across our community.
To view upcoming patriotic programming, visit warmemorial.org/ patriotic.
the ac-119 gunships: from cargo to combat
Sunday, November 2 | 2pm
Local author Barry Levine shares the remarkable history of the Fairchild C-119 "Flying Boxcar." Originally used on unique missions before Vietnam, over 50 were later repurposed as gunships during the war.
veterans day breakfast
Tuesday, November 11 | 8am
Join us for our annual Veterans Day Breakfast, featuring heartfelt thankyou notes from local students, a service song medley, a gourmet breakfast, and keynote remarks from Medal of Honor recipient Jim McCloughan.
vet-to-vet
Thursday, December 4 | 8am
Start your day off right with coffee and breakfast treats at The War Memorial. This is a chance to meet with fellow veterans, share stories of service, and connect with the Veterans Committee.
vetconnect seminar series: support for those who served Thursday, January 22 | 6pm
Learn more about emergency services, and burial and cemetery benefits offered in Michigan. Join us as we welcome representatives from Michigan Veterans Trust Fund and Great Lakes National Cemetery.
It’s merry and bright all around the Alger House ‘Tis the season at The War Memorial! We’re busy as elves preparing another season of magical holiday events just for you and your loved ones!
WHEN SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23
TIME 4-7pm
COST Free for general admission
VIP Child ticket
$35
VIP Adult ticket
$45
The 20-foot decorated tree will be prominently placed in front of our fountain, evoking a sense of holiday magic for any age! The festive evening includes hot chocolate, live ice sculpting, a vintage holiday marketplace, caroling, children’s crafts and much more. While the event is free, registration is requested.
New this year! Upgrade to a VIP ticket and savor a gourmet mac & cheese bar loaded with delicious toppings, plus festive snacks from 4–5:30pm. After the ceremony, head back inside the Alger Center Ballroom to warm up with cookies, hot cocoa, and a chance to mingle with Santa.
WHEN SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11
TIME Seatings at 4pm, 5:30pm, 7pm
COST
$25 per child
$5 per adult
Dress the children in their comfiest pajamas and let them snuggle up with their favorite stuffed toy and blanket as they join Santa Claus for a magical evening in the Alger House. The children will join Santa by the warm glow of the fireplace while they listen to him read a beloved holiday story, sing holiday songs, tell tales about life at the North Pole, and share his favorite holiday treat…milk and cookies!
New this year! Inner Circle Photography will be on hand to capture a professional family portrait during your visit with Santa—no selfies necessary.
* Holiday keepsakes also available! Take home a copy of our official 2025 Bedtime Stories with Santa storybook or a plush keepsake with additional purchase.
We are honored to carry on these holiday traditions, which are made possible with the support of our amazing sponsors!
NORTHERN TRUST | CHARLES SCHWAB-GROSSE POINTE
MATHNASIUM OF GROSSE POINTE | INNER CIRCLE PHOTOGRAPHY
GROSSE POINTE NEWS | CHANGING PERSPECTIVES COUNSELING
LISA VALLEE-SMITH & JEFFREY SMITH
WHEN SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14
TIME Seating at 9:30am & 12:30pm
COST Child
$45
Adult
$67.50
This holiday season, join friends and family for a joy-filled Breakfast with Santa at The War Memorial! Santa makes a spectacular entrance via his iconic helicopter to kickstart the festivities. While dressed in your holiday best, savor a delicious breakfast prepared by The War Memorial's culinary team, and be sure to have your camera ready to capture the magic.
GINGERBREAD HOUSE COMPETITION
Sunday, November 16 | 12-3pm
Celebrate the season with our first-ever Gingerbread House Competition—gather your team, craft your candy-covered creation, and see who takes home the prize at the Tree Lighting on November 23.
MERRY & BRIGHT HOLIDAY DINNER PARTY
NEW THIS YEAR!
WHEN THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18
TIME Cocktail Hour | 6:30pm Dinner | 7pm
Concert | 8pm
COST Dinner & Concert
$75
Concert Only $20
Experience the historic Alger House at its very best, festively decorated for the holiday season when you join us for our newest event, the Merry & Bright Holiday Dinner Party. Gather in the Reception Room for a three-course holiday meal from our Executive Chef, followed by an upbeat performance in our lakefront ballroom from Detroit crooner Ben Sharkey. This event is 21+
Welcome to our upcoming season of inspiring artistic experiences.
The War Memorial’s legacy of world-class arts and cultural experiences continues as we close out 2025 and welcome the 2026 season. Discover an inspiring lineup of entertainment—from stirring concerts and dazzling operas to intimate performances that celebrate creativity and connection.
WHEN FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7
TIME Cocktail Hour at 6:30pm
Dinner at 7pm
Concert at 8pm
COST $80 per person
*Tickets sold by the table.
Experience an evening of Italian elegance as the Detroit Opera Resident Artists return to The War Memorial. Enjoy Puccini’s most beloved arias, duets, and ensembles—from the passion of Tosca to the romance of La rondine and the beauty of La bohème and Turandot. With fine dining, sparkling Prosecco, and world-class voices filling the lakeside ballroom, this soirée is a true feast for the senses.
WHEN FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13
TIME Cocktail hour at 6:30pm Dinner at 7pm Concert at 8pm
COST
$85 per person
*Tickets sold by table
Experience an unforgettable evening with a romantic gourmet dinner crafted by Executive Chef Joe Paxton, followed by a captivating performance from jazz vocalist Olivia Van Goor, winner of Detroit’s Best Vocalist for the Preservation of Jazz Excellence Award. Renowned for her melodic tones that ignite warmth and charm, Olivia’s artistry will make this evening truly special. Your night includes a delightful cocktail hour, a sumptuous dinner and dessert, and a mesmerizing concert to close out the night.
WHEN FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21
TIME 7:30pm
COST General admission
$15
VIP Tickets $40
*VIP tickets include a complimentary drink and reserved seating.
The Night Cap experience invites you into the historic Alger Mansion for a distinctly special evening with an up-close live performance, creating a connection between artists and audience unlike any other Inside the elegant Reception Room, Detroit’s own At-Will Band fills the space with soulful sounds—raw, personal, and unforgettable.
WHEN SUNDAY, JANUARY 25
TIME 3pm
COST $70 per person
Step into the Alger Center Ballroom for an elegant afternoon of tea, treats, and timeless song. The Detroit Opera Resident Artists—Brianna J. Robinson, Mia Mandineau, Travis Leon Williams, and Cole Bellamy—join pianist Nathalie Doucet to bring the Great American Songbook to life with the melodies of Gershwin, Kern, Porter, Ellington, and more.
WHEN SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21
TIME 8pm
COST $35 per person
$45 for reserved seating
Scottish fiddler Alasdair Fraser—hailed as “the Michael Jordan of Scottish fiddling”—joins Juilliard-trained cellist Natalie Haas for their War Memorial debut, one of the final stops on their North American tour. Celebrated worldwide for their fiery interplay and chamber-style virtuosity, the duo blends the soul of Scottish dance music with breathtaking artistry, creating a concert experience unlike anything else on our stage.
HEALTH, WELLNESS & SPORTS
ADULT FENCING
Mondays, 7:40–8:25pm November 24–December 22
FIRST AID & ADULT/PEDIATRIC CPR & AED
Tuesday, 6–9:30pm December 2
A MORNING OF YIN YOGA AND SOUND BATH
Sunday, 9–10:15am December 7
BEGINNER BALLROOM BASICS
Tuesdays, 7–7:50pm
TANGO & CHA CHA October 28–December 2
INTERMEDIATE BALLROOM BASICS
Tuesdays, 8–8:50pm
FOXTROT
October 28–December 2
BEGINNER LINE DANCING
Wednesdays, 6–7pm October 29–December 10
BELLYDANCE FOR EVERYBODY
Tuesdays, 7–8pm November 4–December 9
The War Memorial’s classes and activities are open to the public! Classes and activities at The War Memorial are open to the public! Everyone is welcome—there are no residency requirements and membership is not necessary.
INTRO TO DRAWING
Wednesdays, 6–7:30pm November 5-December 17
WATERCOLOR PAINTING
Wednesdays, 7:30–9pm November 5-December 17
LEARN TO PAINT LIKE BOB ROSS (MOUNTAIN SUNSET)
Saturday, 1-4pm December 20
The War Memorial travels the world! Visit www.warmemorial.org/travel for current trips and itineraries
OFF DAY ART PLAY
Tuesday, 9am–12pm November 4
YOU & ME: STORYTIME ART FOR KIDS
Tuesdays, 9–10am November 6–December 18
WEEKLY CREATIONS: KIDS ART CLASS
Mondays, 5:30–6:30pm November 10–December 15
GOBBLED TOGETHER: KIDS CRAFTING WORKSHOP
Saturday, 10am–1pm November 15
SEW A HOLIDAY DRESS WORKSHOP
Saturday, 1-4pm December 13
MONEY SMARTS: FINANCIAL LITERACY FOR YOUNG ADULTS
Mondays, 6–7:30pm November 3–December 8
FENCING SESSIONS (AGES 6–18)
November 24–December 22
BEGINNER FENCING
Mondays, 6-6:45pm
INTERMEDIATE FENCING
Mondays, 6:50–7:35pm
TUMBLEBUNNIES GYMNASTICS (THURSDAYS)
November 13–December 18
AGES 18mo–3 | 5:30–6pm AGES 3–4 | 6:05–6:35pm AGES 5–7 | 6:40–7:10pm
MIDDLE SCHOOL DANCE
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4
Classes run year-round! Visit warmemorial.org/drivertraining for a full list of sessions and attendance requirements.
TUMBLEBUNNIES GYMNASTICS (FRIDAYS)
November 14–December 19
AGES 18mo–3 | 9:30–10am AGES 3–4 | 10:05–10:35am
AT THE WAR MEMORIAL Information and tickets are available online! www.warmemorial.org
NOV. 2
50th Vietnam War Commemoration: THE AC-119 GUNSHIPS
NOV. 11
SILENT BOOK CLUB
NOV. 23
TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
NOV. 7 Dinner and Concert: PROSECCO, PASTA & PUCCINI
NOV. 13 Fever Candlelight THE WIZARD OF OZ: A CLASSICAL CONCERT
DEC. 4 Middle School Dance: HOLIDAY SWEATER EDITION
DEC. 11
BEDTIME STORIES WITH SANTA
NOV. 8 Second Saturdays: WILD WILDLIFE NOV. 9 Modern Manners: ETIQUETTE CLASS
NOV. 16 A SPEAKEASY AFTERNOON
DEC. 4
VET-TO-VET COFFEE HOUR
DEC. 14
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
NOV. 16 GINGERBREAD HOUSE COMPETITION
DEC. 7
BEDTIME STORIES WITH SANTA
DEC. 18
Dinner and Concert: MERRY & BRIGHT WITH BEN SHARKEY
NOV. 11
VETERANS DAY BREAKFAST
NOV. 21 Night Cap: AT-WILL BAND
DEC. 9
BEDTIME STORIES WITH SANTA
HOLIDAY TRADITIONS EVENT HOLIDAY TRADITIONS EVENT
DEC. 21 & 23 Fever Candlelight QUEEN & THE BEATLES FLEETWOOD MAC