Video talking about the new brand, including the stories of Detroiters.
The Belle Isle Conservancy is rolling into 2026 with a full visual and digital refresh that aims to match what the island already is in people’s hearts: Detroit’s backyard and a cultural landmark, not just a park.
That hit home for me. Growing up, taking the Jefferson bus then transferring onto Belle Isle was my version of a getaway. Like many in the area, our house never had the money for out-of-town vacations.
I have many great memories of the 982-acre island from the 1980s and early 90s — but I think it’s important to look to the future.
And that’s exactly what the non-profit Conservancy that supports the island park is doing. This morning, I was on hand as the Conservancy unveiled a new brand identity and logo created with Detroit-based agency Lafayette American, positioning Belle Isle as a “living cultural landmark” and everyday gathering place.
The new brand and website are built around three ideas Conservancy leaders kept coming back to at the announcement: People, Nature, and what they’re calling “Detroit joy.”
Visually, there’s a “sunrise-to-sunset” color palette pulled from the river, sky, and tree canopy, plus a recurring “portal” motif meant to feel like you’re being invited into the island experience.
Instead of centering buildings, the photography is shifting toward Detroiters actually using the space.
There’s a new website, too. The goal is for it to be more visitor-first, with tailored guides.
There’s one last thing that I wanted to mention. The site also has a space for uploading family photos, videos, or audio memories, and streamlined pages for donors, members, volunteers, and sponsors that connect contributions to specific projects.
Guess I’m going to have to dig around some old photo albums this weekend.
There’s a new name and new management for one of Detroit’s comedy clubs. The old Detroit House of Comedy space downtown is being transformed into Mic Drop Comedy Detroit — the fourth location from owners Casey Currier and Hillary Hutson.
They’re going for what they call a “Jack and the Beanstalk meets Burning Man” vibe. I think that would be a correct description.
The club opens February 13 with comedian Shapel Lacey fresh off a nationwide tour.
They’ve got a lineup coming through spring and summer — Tisha Campbell from “Martin” and “My Wife and Kids,” viral TikTok comedian Damon Darling, and “America’s Got Talent” Golden Buzzer winner Learnmore Jonasi among others.
Mic Drop is at 2301 Woodward in Downtown Detroit.
🍺 After 31 years of pouring pints and building community in Detroit’s Cass Corridor, Motor City Brewing Works is hitting pause. [Source]
The brewery’s taproom will stay open through Sunday, February 8, featuring a digital photo montage of its history. They’re closing temporarily but without a definite timeline for reopening.
The decision comes after the Detroit thermal steam system that’s been used to power the brewery since day one was decommissioned. MCBW says beer distribution will continue, and they’re looking at what’s next for the brand.
I’m going to try and make it out at least one more time. I have great memories of their pizza, wild conversations at the bar, and get-togethers with friends upstairs.
Cheers to the next chapter, whatever may be written.
🏁 On the bright side, it seems that the longstanding Checker Bar in downtown Detroit is getting closer to re-opening after a fire as they’re hiring. [Source]
On the Podcast
🗳️ She’s a former evangelical pastor, hospital chaplain, advocate, and trans woman.
Joanna Whaley is jumping into the Downriver State House race, bringing what she says is a faith-rooted, people-first lens to politics.
In a conversation on Daily Detroit, we get into the K-shaped economy, the possibility of an AI data center by I-94 at the giant tire, and why so many neighbors juggling part-time jobs and rising health care costs are tired of being left holding the bag.
Listen on: [Apple Podcasts] [Spotify] [Daily Detroit]
📺 Detroit’s media deck just got reshuffled: the Freep and News uncoupled, PBS funding is in flux, and your favorite teams might end up back on free TV (sometimes).
Public relations pro and media watcher Matt Friedman stopped by the studio to break down who actually pays for local news now, what’s at risk for Metro Detroiters, and why your subscriptions matter more than ever.
Listen on: [Apple Podcasts] [Spotify] [Daily Detroit]
👨🍳 Here’s a dessert course: I’ve always appreciated Chef Reactions. He has honest takes and seems to be one of those people who has a gruff exterior — but will give you the shirt off his back.
He’s traveled to Detroit a bit, and he has a pretty good YouTube video highlighting different spots around the metro. Oh, and he’s become a Tigers fan.
I hope I spot him at the ballpark. I won’t say anything to him, I’ll just annoy my partner going, “hey, I watch that ****ing guy!” and then proceed to demolish a hot dog.
That’s it for today. Up early to media days of the Detroit Auto Show in the morning, so there will likely be an email edition tomorrow with a walk-through of some of the spots I think you should check out at Huntington Place if you go.
Thanks for your time and support.
Remember that you are somebody,
-Jer
Jer Staes
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