LIVE INSPIRED MAGAZINE IS A PUBLICATION OF LIVE INSPIRED PRODUCTIONS AT THE WAR MEMORIAL.
A letter from the President & CEO
As we step into a new year, we look forward to fresh adventures and the excitement that lie ahead. After an unforgettable 75th anniversary celebration, we are eager to continue building on the momentum generated by the hard work and dedication of our War Memorial staff. However, it’s the bonds of friendship within our community that truly made the difference and shone through.
Last year, we welcomed back many beloved events, revitalized our veterans' initiatives, and started some of the repairs and restorations to the historic Alger House. Over the course of our year-long anniversary celebration, we reconnected with old friends, made new ones, and rekindled important relationships. Whether you came to the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, a SummerFest concert, Dinner with Chef, or Breakfast with Santa, we hope your experiences were memorable. Words can't fully express how grateful we are for your continued support.
My personal favorite event from last year was the Tree Lighting Ceremony. It was an event for all ages, and the spirit of the holidays was truly alive for everyone who attended and helped make the event a success.
As we look ahead to 2025, we're thrilled to continue offering our patrons exciting new events, unique experiences, and the warmth and hospitality that only The War Memorial can provide. Be sure to check our website regularly for updates on upcoming events, classes, support opportunities, or just to discover something new about us.
Here's to another wonderful year ahead!
Sincerely, Maria
Miller
President & CEO
The War Memorial
A Look Back at 2024: A year of honor, celebration, community, and experiences.
80,000+ Visitors on Campus transforming The War Memorial into a thriving hub of connection, culture, and celebration for all ages.
9,500+ Class Participants discovered new passions, honed their skills, and embraced lifelong learning through our engaging classes and workshops.
304 Free Community Events enriched lives and fostered togetherness, exemplifying our mission to be a home for everyone.
500+ Veterans Served through specialized programming and events, reflecting our deep commitment to those who served.
130+ Community Partnerships to expand our reach, enhance our offerings, and provide vital resources and enriching experiences for our community.
DISCOVER YOUR WAR MEMORIAL IN 2025
As we turn the page to 2025, we look forward to new opportunities to bring arts, culture, and community to life. Join us as we create meaningful experiences and embrace the possibilities ahead!
SERVICE SPOTLIGHT:
Marine veteran never forgets sacrifices of fellow soldiers
The way he bonded with fellow Marines is a key takeaway of his service for Charles Kotcher.
“That was huge,” he said. Kotcher’s name is listed on the Vietnam War Honor Roll plaque, located on the main floor of the Alger House at The War Memorial.
“I appreciate that,” he said. “It’s a testament to 400 of our fellow Grosse Pointers who served. We were upper-middle class here and even they served.”
The Vietnam War plaque lists the names of those who served in the Vietnam War from the Grosse Pointe area.
expectations of military life were that he would end up in Vietnam for 13 months, the precise amount of time he spent in the warzone.
A part of the 1st Marine Division, Kotcher received his basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego in California.
Kotcher, 80, was born in Detroit and grew up in Grosse Pointe Farms. A 1962 graduate of De La Salle Collegiate High School, he enlisted in the Marines in June of 1966.
“I needed that discipline,” he said. “It’s still with me today. I wanted to fly a helicopter, but I needed to sign up to be in for five years. After five minutes of boot camp, I decided not to do that. The Army was on my back to join them, so I enlisted in the Marines.”
Kotcher, who attended the Vietnam Veterans Day Luncheon in March at The War Memorial, said that his
“I was very impressed with the drill instructors,” he commented.
“When we went on a 10-mile run or something with a backpack, he’d be off to the side running backward and I thought that was tough. I was impressed with the discipline.”
Once done in California, Kotcher headed for Vietnam in early 1967. Headquartered in Da Nang, Vietnam, Kotcher worked as a postal clerk.
“There were about 10 Marines supporting every one Marine going through the rice paddies,” he said. “We delivered mail by chopper to the guys on the hill. That was huge because they could not get to a town or to the PX. I’d give them everything I had. We would unload big trucks with mail and goods that were coming in for the soldiers.”
It was on Nov. 7, 1967 that Kotcher’s friend Ed Blumer was killed in action in Quang Nam at age 20.
“I appreciate that,” he said. “It’s a testament to 400 of our fellow Grosse Pointers who served.
“Of the 30 of us who went over to Vietnam, he was the only one who died,” he said. “That was the most difficult time for me. The gunnery instructor asked for a volunteer to take the mail in by truck. He volunteered to take it and died when his truck ran over a land mine. You never forget, 50 years later, the sacrifices that your fellow soldiers make.”
Kotcher returned home to Grosse Pointe Farms from Vietnam in April of 1968 and was discharged as a corporal. His parents lived in Grosse Pointe Farms from 1955 to 1968. OUR 2025 SPONSORSHIP CATALOGUE IS NOW AVAILABLE!
Discover the exciting events we have planned for the year ahead! Scan the QR code to explore our sponsorship guide and choose the events that inspire you most.
at The War Memorial
VET-TO-VET | Thursday, January 9 | 8am
Begin the new year at The War Memorial in the presence of fellow veterans! All veterans are invited to gather for this casual coffee hour where they can share stories, enjoy camaraderie, and connect in a relaxed setting.
CONFLICT AND HEALING: A LECTURE SERIES
Sunday, February 23, 2pm | Sunday, March 16, 2pm
As part of The War Memorial’s commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, this two-part series explores the impact of trauma and the journey toward resilience. Led by professor, Dr. Judy Jacobs, the talks—The Psychology of Trauma and Managing the Stressors of the Day—offer insights and tools for veterans, families, and anyone seeking to understand and support healing.
VET-TO-VET | Thursday, March 6 | 8am
Whether you're recently discharged or a seasoned veteran, The War Memorial’s Vet-to-Vet gathering is a chance to join in camaraderie and endless stories of courage and honor. Your service deserves recognition, and this event is our way of saying thank you for your dedication and sacrifice.
EAT. ASPIRE. TASTE.
At The War Memorial, we celebrate the art of cuisine. Join us for exclusive dinners with our executive chef, pairing gourmet dishes with decadent cocktails and wines.
MASTERING MOCKTAILS
Discover the art of crafting exquisite zero-proof beverages! Join us for an engaging and interactive session where you’ll create your own signature mocktails. Savor a selection of flavorful appetizers, perfectly curated to complement your refreshing spirit-free creations.
TEA AND TREASURES:
Arias Over Afternoon Tea with Detroit Opera
Enjoy an elegant afternoon of fine teas, sweet and savory treats, and timeless opera favorites performed by Detroit Opera Resident Artists— Brianna J. Robinson, Kendra Beasley, Cole Bellamy, Cameron Rolling, and River Guard—accompanied by Nathalie Doucet on piano. A perfect blend of tradition and music awaits!
Food and drink experiences at The War Memorial require a minimum attendance; guest minimums may vary per event. If the minimum attendance requirement is not met for an event, guests will be notified and will receive a full refund.
SING TO LOVE
Valentine’s Day Dinner and Concert Ramona Collins and Cliff Monear
Experience an unforgettable evening with a romantic gourmet dinner crafted by Executive Chef Joe Paxton, followed by an enchanting performance by the incomparable jazz vocalist, Ramona Collins and pianist, Cliff Monear. Your evening includes a delightful cocktail hour, a sumptuous dinner and dessert, and a captivating concert to end the night.
WHEN FRIDAY, JANUARY 24
TIME 6:30pm
WHEN SUNDAY, JANUARY 26
TIME 3pm
WHEN FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14
TIME 6:30pm
PHOTO: JEFF DUNN
DAVE BENNETT RETURNS TO THE WAR MEMORIAL, SET TO LEAD WINTER BRUNCH SERIES
It’s music that will warm your soul on a cold winter's day.
Bennett is a multi-instrumentalist and singer who performs everything from jazz and swing to rock and roll. His most recent public performance at The War Memorial came in July for SummerFest. The first Winter Brunch Series he was involved with at the nonprofit organization was in 2019.
“My show will blend several different styles, giving you a little bit of 1930s big band swing, some 1950s rockabilly and some original music that I’ve written,” Bennett said. “The War Memorial has become my home away from home and I’m always treated so well. It’s like coming home to family for me.”
Van Goor, a jazz vocalist, has received honors like “Best Vocalist” for the Preservation of Jazz Excellence Award in Detroit, nominations by the Detroit Music Awards
and recognition by many Michigan-based publications. Dobbins, who has played in the Brunch Series before, describes his sound as hard-driving, solid rhythm with refreshing melodic sensibility.
“Sean is one of the finest drummers in the country and his groups are always top notch and a lot of fun to come out and see. He’s an animated drummer and his skills are impeccable. Olivia is a newcomer to the series and is an amazing entertainer. I know people will love her,” Bennett said about the fellow series performers.
Tickets can be purchased for each event individually, or as a subscription if you’d like to join us for the whole series. For tickets, visit warmemorial.org and click on the Events & Experiences tab.
THE DAVE BENNETT WINTER BRUNCH SERIES EVENTS
This year’s Winter Brunch Series comes to you through a special collaboration with Dave Bennett to help curate a one-of-a-kind series; adding in the culinary expertise of The War Memorial’s Executive Chef, Joe Paxton and his team will fully delight all of your senses. Pairing music and food during the cold winter months is a surefire way to keep your soul cozy.
OLIVIA VAN GOOR & RANDY NAPOLEON
SUNDAY, JANUARY 19th | 11am
Winner of Detroit’s Best Vocalist for the Preservation of Jazz Excellence Award, Olivia Van Goor will enchant audiences with her melodic tones, guaranteed to ignite a warmth that will last throughout the winter!
SEAN DOBBINS
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22nd | 11am
Sean Dobbins returns to The War Memorial with his signature soulful jazz. As one of the nation’s premier jazz drummers, Sean masterfully blends diverse sounds into a mesmerizing experience that will leave you in awe.
TICKETS:
VIP TICKETS – including bottomless mimosas
VIP brunch and concert $95
VIP table of 8 $720
VIP series subscription $270
GENERAL ADMISSION – cash mimosa bar
Brunch and Concert $80
Brunch and Concert Subscription $225 Concert Only $35
DAVE BENNETT BAND
SUNDAY, MARCH 30th | 11am
The Dave Bennett Band seamlessly blends a variety of musical styles, from swing and big band to rockabilly, and modern jazz. The group's exceptional versatility creates a unique sound that is truly one of a kind!
The War Memorial’s classes and activities are open to the public!
Everyone is welcome –membership or residency is not necessary. We continue to offer new and engaging programing for all ages throughout the year. Be sure to visit our website for full details and calendar.
Residency within the Grosse Pointe Public School System district is necessary for Middle School Dances.
CLASSES & ACTIVITIES
ADULT ENRICHMENT
HEALTH, WELLNESS & SPORTS
ADULT FENCING
Mondays, 7:40 – 8:25pm January 6 – February 10
DANCE
BELLYDANCE FOR EVERYBODY
Tuesdays, 7 – 8pm January 7 – February 11
LINE DANCING
Wednesdays, 6 – 7pm January 15 – February 19
BEGINNER BALLROOM BASICS: FOXTROT & SWING
Wednesdays, 7 – 7:50pm January 7 – February 11
INTERMEDIATE BALLROOM BASICS: RUMBA
Wednesdays, 8 – 8:50pm January 7 – February 11
CREATIVE ARTS
LEARN TO PAINT LIKE BOB ROSS
Friday, January 17 | 6 – 9pm Friday, February 21 | 6 – 9pm
WATERCOLOR PAINTING
Wednesdays, 7 – 8:30pm January 15 – February 19
INTRO TO DRAWING
Thursdays, 6:30 – 8pm January 16 – February 20
GEMSTONE RING WORKSHOP W/ TWISTFUL THINKING Saturday, January 25 | 1– 6pm
SKI HI CLUB RETURNS THIS WINTER!
The club is open to students who reside in Grosse Pointe or attend Grosse Pointe schools age 7 through 12th grade. Trips are held weekly on Friday nights January through February. The club is a great way to learn more about skiing and snowboarding, or just to improve your skills! Learn more at warmemorial.org/skihi2025
MORE INFO
For full details on classes and activities, please visit www.warmemorial.org/classes or call 313.881.7511
YOUTH ENRICHMENT
CREATIVE ARTS
KID’S IMAGINATIVE DRAWING & PAINTING
Thursdays, 5:30 – 6:30pm January 16 – February 20
ELENA VICTORIA VALENTINE SEWING WORKSHOPS
Sunday, February 16 | 1 – 4pm
CARICATURE NIGHT (UNDER 14 ACCOMPANIED BY ADULT)
Friday, December 6 | 6 – 8pm
SPORTS & GAMES
TAI CHI W/SUSAN SMITH
Wednesdays, 10 – 11am
January 8 – February 12
FENCING SESSIONS
January 6 – February 10
BEGINNER FENCING (AGES 6-18)
Mondays, 6 – 6:45pm
INTERMEDIATE FENCING (AGES 6-18)
Mondays, 6:50 – 7:35pm
MUSIC & ARTS
TUMBLEBUNNIES BALLET (AGES 3 – 5)
Wednesdays, 5 – 5:30pm January 15 – February 19
TUMBLEBUNNIES BALLET (AGES 5 – 7)
Thursdays, 5 – 5:30pm January 16 – February 20
TUMBLEBUNNIES GYMNASTICS (WEDNESDAYS)
January 15 – February 19
AGES 18mo – 3 | 6 – 6:30pm
AGES 3 – 5 | 6:35 – 7:05pm
AGES 5 – 7 | 7:10 – 7:40pm
TUMBLEBUNNIES GYMNASTICS (THURSDAYS)
January 16 – February 20
AGES 18mo – 3 | 5:30 – 6pm
AGES 3 – 5 | 6:05 – 6:35pm
AGES 5 – 7 | 6:40 – 7:10pm
TUMBLEBUNNIES GYMNASTICS (FRIDAY MORNINGS)
January 17 – February 21
AGES 18mo – 3 | 9:30 – 10am
AGES 3 – 4 | 10:05 – 10:35am
SOCIAL SKILLS & YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
TINKERGARTEN 9-WEEK SESSION
Wednesdays, 10:30 – 11:30am
January 8 – March 5
SOLE-MATE SNEAKER DANCE
Thursday, February 6
MIDDLE SCHOOL DANCES
Whether you're into classic sneakers or the latest styles, put on your favorite pair and dance the night away! Please visit www.warmemorial.org/eventcalendar for specific details and attendance requirements
GROSSE POINTE DRIVING SCHOOL
Classes run year-round – please visit www.warmemorial.org/drivertraining for a full list of sessions and attendance requirements.
UPCOMING EVENTS
JAN 9
VET-TO-VET
JAN 26
Tea and Treasures: ARIAS OVER AFTERNOON TEA with Detroit Opera
FEB 14
SING TO LOVE
Valentine’s Day Dinner and Concert with Ramona Collins and Cliff Monear
MAR 2
GROSSE POINTE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CONCERT
JAN 14 SILENT BOOK CLUB
FEB 6
Middle School Dance SOLE-MATE SNEAKER DANCE
FEB 22
Dave Bennett Winter Brunch Series: SEAN DOBBINS
MAR 11 SILENT BOOK CLUB
JAN 19
Dave Bennett
Winter Brunch Series: OLIVIA VAN GOOR
FEB 8
Second Saturdays: CUPID’S CORNER
FEB 23
Conflict and Healing Lectures Series: PSYCHOLOGY OF TRAUMA
MAR 16
Conflict and Healing Lectures Series: MANAGING THE STRESSORS OF THE DAY
JAN 23
Historic Book Talk: WARRIORS FOR LIBERTY BY JACK DEMPSEY
FEB 11 SILENT BOOK CLUB
MAR 8
Second Saturdays: SING IN SPRING
MAR 30
Dave Bennett Winter Brunch Series: DAVE BENNETT TRIO
