Oakland University Saudi Student Association Celebrates Eid al-Adha
"The Saudi Student Association celebrated Eid al-Adha at Elliott Tower on May 29th.
Under the full flower moon cloaked in sunlight, friends, family, teachers and peers shared traditional Mediterranean food to celebrate Eid al-Adha.
Eid al Adha, or the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the most sacred days on the Muslim calendar, although its cause for celebration is a deeper story rooted in Abrahamic belief.
It celebrates God swapping out the son of Abraham for a ram as he was to be sacrificed, as God was satisfied by Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son.
Muslims also celebrate the peak of the pilgrimage to Mecca during this time, one of the key pillars of Islam. Traditionally, lamb, cow or sheep is offered as a feast, and the meat is broken into three parts: friends, family and those who need it most.
It is of the utmost spiritual importance that all get to eat.
The Saudi Student Association considered well-known Saudi hospitality when preparing the menu. It was a meal that would set most offerings at a college festival to blush — a sprawling buffet of Mediterranean cuisine: kofta meat, grilled chicken, beef shawarma, grape leaves, Fattoush, Tabbouleh, Falafel, and Lebanese french fries.
The president of the organization, Ahmed Alobaidan — a PhD student in educational leadership — moved like a man with eight arms when organizing the event. He went from hugging and greeting friends and family, to preparing the most Instagram-able dessert tray yet seen on campus.
“Please grab ice cream!” he said when coordinating food for a growing crowd.
Attendees discussed the origins and meaning of the holiday while eating Dubai-chocolate Magnum Ice Cream.
“I was Ahmed’s ESL teacher at Henry Ford when he was first learning English,” Ed Demerly, a retired educator and lifelong volunteer and advocate, said. “I suspect he might be a little better now,” he added while smirking.
“I was the director of English language and a teacher; I believe I taught students from 80 different countries.”
He was also a volunteer with the Peace Corps after completing military service.
The two have maintained a friendship for over a decade. Observing their interactions and the way they described each other, they are a clear showcase of the power of educators and community more broadly.
While interviewing Ed, Ahmed and he linked eyes — and were pulled to each other with a nostalgic magnetism known only to the most impactful of mentors and mentees.
They exchanged a bro hug, and their enthralling conversation was cut short by Ahmed’s daughter running excitedly to her father.
“Baba! Baba!” she said.
Ahmed smiled, cut the meeting short, and moved on to the next of his dozen obligations.
In that moment — the true meaning of the holiday was on display.
A third for friends, old and new alike.
A big third for family.
And a third remembered on a sun-worn crimson Peace Corps T-shirt and the scrambling students getting free dinner in the background.
"
Nightfall at The Hall: Meadow Brook's Annual Benefit Gala Set for Sept. 17
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Nightfall at The Hall is Meadow Brook Hall’s biggest annual fundraising experience—and a continuation of our hugely successful Wild Game Dinner & Auction. Tickets for the event – and the Winner’s Choice Trip Raffle – are on sale now!
Sip cocktails, enjoy hors d’oeuvres, live music and explore our unique selection of silent auction items along the loggia terrace as the sun sets over the Great Estate. Choose from jewelry, travel experiences, exclusive packages, outdoors gear, hunting rifles and much more.
A fantastic dinner follows, featuring fresh entrees crafted by our in-house chef. Experience the flurry of excitement as our Live Auction takes center stage and the big bidding truly begins. As the evening draws to a close, you’ll step out under the sparkle of starlight as it shines across the Great Estate.
Nightfall at The Hall is set for Thursday, Sept. 17 from 6-9 p.m.. Tickets are $175 each and available online today.
Book TICKETS
Winner’s Choice Raffle On Sale Now
Try your luck to win an exciting trip for two! The drawing will take place at 8:30 p.m. at Nightfall at The Hall. You do not have to be present to win. Tickets are $100 each and only 100 tickets will be sold.
Winner will select one of the following:
Napa Valley Trail Escape: Enjoy a 3‐night stay for two in Napa Valley, where you’ll experience a scenic 3-hour gourmet lunch aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train, and an exclusive wine tasting at your choice of location.
The Aloha Collection: Your Island, Your Adventure: Each four-night getaway for two includes accommodations at an Outrigger Resort, and an adventure to explore the island of your choice – O’ahu, Maui, Kaua’i or the Big Island.
Broadway Beyond the Curtain: This unique experience invites you to a private pre-show dinner with a Broadway cast member, meet-and-greet after the show, tickets to a Broadway show and two night Manhattan stay for two.
Under the Colorado Sky – A Night at Red Rocks: This Experience one of the most unique open air venues in the world with tickets to a concert of your choice at Red Rocks Amphitheater, plus a three night stay for two.
winner’s choice Raffle TICKETS
Travel for all packages is available through 2028. All trips include airfare for two and are valued at $4,199 and up! Contact Lauren Guzzardo at [email protected] or 248-364-6264 to book your tickets!
Nightfall at The Hall Online Bidding
All bidding for silent auction items will take place online. Our collection of silent auction items will be made available for early online bidding, beginning Tuesday, Sept. 8 and closing the night of the event, Thursday, Sept. 17. More details to come!
Winners will be notified and contacted to arrange for item pick-up if not in attendance at the event.
For more information about Nightfall at The Hall, visit the webpage.
Book TICKETS
Sponsors & Support
Many thanks to the following people and organizations for their big support of Nightfall at The Hall!
Presenting Sponsor:Henry Ford Health
Entertainment Sponsor: Frank & Janet CassiseWinner’s Choice Trip Raffle Sponsor: Nightfall at The Hall Committee
Organizing Committee: Frank Cassise, Ashley Dewling, Sue Evans, Irma Kline, Rick Jayroe, Sue Jayroe, Russell Moore, Michelle Peyerk, Teckla Rhoads, Justin Shattuck, and Randy Walker
Sponsorships are still available! Show your support & connect with the community.
As a self-supporting museum and cultural institution, Meadow Brook relies on supporters like you to help us continue to thrive. Your sponsorship will not only directly impact our efforts, but it will align your organization with ours and connect with our audiences.
Click below for Nightfall at The Hall sponsorship packages available for 2026!
sponsorship opportunities
Meadow Brook Hall is fully self-supporting, relying on touring and special events for the preservation and interpretation of this National Historic Landmark. For more information, call (248) 364-6200 or visit meadowbrookhall.org.
Meadow Brook Hall is the historic home built by one of the automotive aristocracy’s most remarkable women, Matilda Dodge Wilson, widow of auto pioneer John Dodge, and her second husband, Alfred Wilson. Constructed between 1926 and 1929, Meadow Brook Hall represents one of the finest examples of Tudor-revival style architecture in America, and is especially renowned for its superb craftsmanship, architectural detailing and grand scale of 88,000 square-feet. It was the center of a country estate that included 1,500 acres, numerous farm buildings, recreational facilities, several residences and formal gardens. Named a National Historic Landmark in 2012, Meadow Brook Hall strives to preserve and interpret its architecture, landscape, and fine and decorative art so that visitors may be entertained, educated and inspired by history. Meadow Brook Hall is located in Rochester, Mich. on the campus of Oakland University.
The post Tickets for Meadow Brook’s Nightfall at The Hall Benefit Are on Sale Now appeared first on Meadow Brook Hall."
313 Presents Summer Concert Season Kicks Off in Detroit
"More Than 120 Shows Scheduled Across Pine Knob Music Theatre,
Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre, Meadow Brook Amphitheatre,
Comerica Park, Little Caesars Arena & the Fox Theatre
Anthony Pizzo Named Winner of 2026 Pine Knob Commemorative Poster Design Competition
(DETROIT – May 12, 2026) – Following a sold‑out performance by internationally acclaimed rock star YUNGBLUD at Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre on May 1, 313 Presents is launching an exciting summer lineup across its outdoor venues. The performance signals the start of a full season of live entertainment at 313 Presents’ world‑class venues, including Pine Knob Music Theatre (presented by Proud Partners United Wholesale Mortgage, Trinity Health and Ally), Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre, Meadow Brook Amphitheatre (presented by Proud Partner Oakland University Credit Union), Comerica Park, Little Caesars Arena and the Fox Theatre (featuring Proud Partner Comerica Bank).
The season officially kicks off at Meadow Brook Amphitheatre on the campus of Oakland University this Saturday, May 16, as legendary guitarists Joe Satriani and Steve Vai unite as the SATCHVAI Band bring their “Surfing with the Hydra” 2026 tour with special guest Animals As Leaders. Momentum continues Saturday, May 23 when Kid Cudi launches the season at Pine Knob Music Theatre with The Rebel Ragers Tour, featuring special guests Big Boi, A‑Trak and Chip Tha Ripper.
“Each summer is an opportunity for us to raise the bar across our amphitheatres, and this season’s lineup does exactly that,” said Keith Dowdican, Chief Operating Officer of 313 Presents. “Together with Live Nation and with the support of our presenting sponsors, alongside iconic artists in beautiful outdoor venues, we’re proud to deliver memorable live experiences for fans throughout the region all summer long.”
From The Strokes (June 15), two nights of Luke Bryan (July 11 & 12) and Jack White’s first-ever outdoor appearance (July 25) at Pine Knob Music Theatre, to Triumph (May 30) and Jimmy Eat World (June 12) at Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre, to Paul Simon (June 20) and Brandi Carlile (August 21) at Meadow Brook Amphitheatre, to My Chemical Romance (August 21) and two nights of Banana Ball (September 18 & 19) at Comerica Park, there is something in store for everyone to enjoy this summer.
313 PRESENTS SCHEDULE BY VENUE:
PINE KNOB MUSIC THEATRE | MICHIGAN LOTTERY AMPHITHEATRE | MEADOW BROOK AMPHITHEATRE
COMERICA PARK | LITTLE CAESARS ARENA | FOX THEATRE
COLLEGE FOR CREATIVE STUDIES FOURTH ANNUAL POSTER COMPETITION
As part of this year’s summer programming, 313 Presents is also continuing its partnership with the College for Creative Studies (CCS), announcing Anthony Pizzo as the winner of the fourth annual Pine Knob Music Theatre commemorative poster design competition. Now in its fourth year, the program highlights emerging illustration and design talent through a curriculum-based project challenging students to create a professional design that captures the energy and spirit of the iconic amphitheatre. Anthony’s limited-edition design will serve as the official 2026 season poster and will be featured as a Proud Partner promotional giveaway at select shows throughout the summer.
“I've gone to Pine Knob for shows before, and the best part is that it is an amphitheatre,” said Anthony. “I love nature, and I love music; they are some of the most important things in my life. I was super excited to work this out and really focus on the nature of Pine Knob. I came up with a pine tree giant playing a pinewood guitar out in the forest. All of the parts of his design are relevant to pine trees, as the mushrooms growing around it are matsutake, which grow symbiotically with conifers. The moss that makes up its ‘hair’ is informally called ‘old man's beard’; which is perfect for plant hair. I set it in a warm sunset, as that is the peak time at Pine Knob during the summer with the warm summer sun illuminating the performer. I love that I had the opportunity to express my love for plants and music all in one piece.”
2026 Pine Knob Music Theatre Winning Poster
Designed by College for Creative Studies’ Anthony Pizzo
Click Here For Larger Image
ELEVATE CONCERT EXPERIENCE WITH PREMIUM UPGRADES
This summer, ticket holders can elevate their concert experience with VIP Upgrades, featuring access to the MotorCity Casino Hotel VIP Club at Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre and the VIP Sun Deck at Meadow Brook Amphitheatre. Enjoy exclusive amenities designed to enhance night out at the venue from arrival to encore.
Space is limited and available while supplies last. VIP Upgrades must be accompanied by a valid event ticket and can be purchased during checkout or after your initial ticket purchase through Ticketmaster.
Further details are listed below. For more information on premium seating, submit an inquiry at 313Presents.com or contact the Premium Sales Team at (313) 471-7313.
MOTORCITY CASINO HOTEL VIP CLUB AT MICHIGAN LOTTERY AMPHITHEATRE
Guests with a ticket to any show at Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre can now upgrade for access to the MotorCity Casino Hotel VIP Club, previously only open to Season Ticket holders. Access to the club includes:
Private entrance
Private restrooms
Private Bar (drinks available for purchase)
Option to upgrade your experience with Chef’s Table access (available for purchase)
MICHIGAN LOTTERY AMPHITHEATRE PARTY BOXES
For a great night out with friends or colleagues, reserve one of the three private Party Boxes at Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre. Each package includes:
12 Party Box tickets (with an option to purchase up to eight additional tickets)
Two VIP parking passes
Access to the MotorCity Casino Hotel VIP Club
VIP SUN DECK AT MEADOW BROOK AMPHITHEATRE
Enhance your experience with access to the exclusive VIP Sun Deck – a private space to relax, enjoy refreshments, and connect with guests before the show.
Located behind the concessions on the house-right side of the pavilion/lawn, VIP Sun Deck access includes:
Private cash bar
One complimentary drink
Chips & dip appetizer (nacho cheese or salsa)
Wait service until the main act takes the stage
ADDITIONAL PREMIUM OPTIONS
Premier Parking is available at all three amphitheatres, and Express Lane Entry is available at Pine Knob Music Theatre.
Premier Parking allows guests to park within close walking distance of the venue entrance, regardless of arrival time. Mobile-only Premier Parking passes are available as an add-on prior to checkout on Ticketmaster or by visiting the Directions & Parking page at 313Presents.com.
Limited availability
Parking opens three hours prior to show time unless otherwise noted
Not available for purchase on-site
Premier Parking Locations:
Pine Knob Music Theatre: Follow signage to the Premium Parking Lot near light poles 7A and 8A
Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre: Enter via the second entrance, approximately a quarter mile east of the main entrance on Metro Parkway
Meadow Brook Amphitheatre: Parking Lot 57, Rochester Hills, MI 48309
EXPRESS LANE AT PINE KNOB MUSIC THEATRE
A Pine Knob Express Lane Pass allows guests to bypass general entrance lines for faster venue entry. Passes are available for select shows and can be added to your Ticketmaster cart before checkout or purchased at the Ally Financial East Box Office.
Enter at the Ally East Gate near the Ticketmaster Box Office.
Please note: The Express Lane Pass is not a concert ticket, does not grant early entry, and does not include additional amenities. Standard security protocols apply.
BUD LIGHT HILLTOP DECK BOXES AT PINE KNOB MUSIC THEATRE
Large groups can elevate their concert experience by reserving a Bud Light Hilltop Deck Box at Pine Knob Music Theatre—perfect for client entertainment, employee outings, or a night out with friends and family. Each Deck Box accommodates 8-14 guests and includes two drink tickets per person, a dedicated service attendant, and two Trinity Health VIP parking passes.
SEASON TICKET MEMBERSHIPS
All three outdoor amphitheatres offer Season Ticket Memberships, delivering a premium concert experience with exclusive benefits. Members enjoy priority seating, guaranteed tickets to every show (including sellouts), members-only club access, VIP parking, express beverage lanes, and special offers for 313 Presents events. Benefits vary by venue. Learn more at 313Presents.com or call (313) 471-7313.
PREMIUM SEATING OPTIONS
TRINITY HEALTH IVY LOUNGE | MOTORCITY CASINO HOTEL VIP CLUB
MEADOW BROOK AMPHITHEATRE VIP SUN DECK | BUD LIGHT HILLTOP DECK
MICHIGAN LOTTERY AMPHITHEATRE PARTY BOX | ENCORE LOUNGE | FOX THEATRE SUITES
313 PRESENTS APP
313 Presents, in partnership with Ticketmaster, has launched the new 313 Presents app, giving fans a faster, easier way to access and manage their tickets across all 313 Presents venues. The app connects directly with Ticketmaster, serving as a one‑stop destination for event tickets, account access and future event information. With this addition, guests now have the flexibility to manage their tickets through the Ticketmaster app and the 313 Presents app, creating a seamless and convenient experience wherever fans choose to engage. To learn more about the mobile ticketing apps, please visit 313presents.com/events/mobile-ticketing-apps.
RAIN OR SHINE — KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Guests are encouraged to plan ahead by carpooling, subscribing to SMS alerts, and following 313 Presents on Instagram, X, Facebook and TikTok for real-time weather and traffic updates. Pine Knob guests can also tune in to AM 1640 for on-site announcements.
313 PRESENTS SMS TEXT ALERTS
Sign up to receive updates from 313 Presents via text, including the latest concert and event announcements, exclusive presales, ticket offers, enter-to-win opportunities, and more. Visit 313presents.com/connect/subscribe or text 313 to 59862 to subscribe. Message & data rates may apply.
313 PRESENTS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Stay connected with 313 Presents on Instagram, X, Facebook, and TikTok for event announcements, special offers, contests, and exclusive content. Find all 313 Presents social media platforms at 313presents.com/connect/follow-us.
LEVY CONTINUES TO ENHANCE FOOD & BEVERAGE OFFERINGS
Levy continues to elevate the food and guest experience at Pine Knob Music Theatre, Meadow Brook Amphitheatre and Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre, introducing new menu items, refreshed spaces and expanded beverage offerings for the 2026 season.
Trinity Health Ivy Lounge | Pine Knob Music Theatre
Available exclusively to Pine Knob Season Ticket Members before, during and after each show, the Trinity Health Ivy Lounge serves as a premier pre‑ and post‑show destination. The lounge hosts select post‑show after‑parties and features specialty cocktails, a curated wine list and rotating menu options.
New menu items for 2026 include:
Smoky Southwest Chicken Salad
Watermelon & Cucumber Salad
Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta
Pomegranate Pork Belly
BBQ Philly or Smokin’ Slab Sandwich (served with fries from the on‑site smoker)
Chicken & Waffles with cinnamon butter and maple syrup
Ivy Bread Pudding (individual skillet)
S’mores in a Mason Jar
Venue‑Wide Food & Beverage Highlights | Pine Knob Music Theatre
Guests can enjoy a variety of new and returning food and beverage experiences throughout the grounds, including:
Grey Goose debuts at the Stage Left location at the end of the boardwalk, offering Grey Goose vodkas, Patrón Tequila and Bacardi rums.
Cutwater canned cocktails launch in 2026 and will be available in multiple locations, including the Bud Light Hilltop Deck stand.
Surfside returns following a strong 2025 season, with spirits‑based iced teas and lemonades available throughout the venues.
Frozen cocktails will be served in a 20‑oz Pine Knob Pilsner souvenir cup, including Island Punch with rum, Margarita, and Lemonade with Jim Beam, available at the Jim Beam Stage Right stand.
Premium frozen cocktails featuring Patrón Tequila and Grey Goose Vodka will be available at Stage Right Patrón and Stage Left Grey Goose bars.
The Bud Light Hilltop Deck will host Happy Hour at select shows.
Pine Knob koozies return for 2026, alongside the debut of the Michigan Lottery Koozie.
Yuengling makes its Meadow Brook Amphitheatre debut at locations throughout the venue.
The Block by JARS Cannabis, located inside Pine Knob’s UWM West Entrance, offers an open‑air beer garden experience with food and beverages supplied by Rave Associates, featuring more than 20 craft and traditional beers. Highlights include loaded mac & cheese, pork nachos and sliders.
Cannabis consumption and purchase are not permitted on premises; the retail space offers JARS‑branded merchandise and information about JARS’ Michigan locations.
Local Restaurant Partners
Honcho Outpost returns for its ninth season at Pine Knob, serving Union Joints‑style Latin street food, including the popular Walking Taco.
Detroit Grille House returns to Pine Knob Music Theatre and Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre with pub‑style burgers, chicken strip baskets and garlic herb fries.
Little Caesars Pizza is now available at all three venues, with a second Pine Knob location opening behind the hill in the main area.
Planet Sub and Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt return to Pine Knob and Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre.
MOTORCITY CASINO HOTEL VIP CLUB AT MICHIGAN LOTTERY AMPHITHEATRE
The MotorCity Casino Hotel VIP Club is available to season ticket members and guests who enhance their concert experience with VIP Upgrades. Beginning in 2026, the space will feature brand‑new furniture throughout and the return of chef’s tables, offering an elevated dining experience.
STAGE LEFT LOUNGE AT MICHIGAN LOTTERY AMPHITHEATRE
The Stage Left Lounge Presented by Bell’s and Founders enters its third season in the East Plaza, adjacent to the MotorCity Casino Hotel VIP Club. The lounge is open to all ticket holders beginning when doors open and features patio seating, communal tables, and a variety of craft beer offerings, including Bell’s, Founders, New Holland, and more. Happy Hour and koozie giveaways will take place at select shows, and a Michigan Lottery self serve machine will be available on site.
PINE KNOB MUSIC THEATRE MERCHANDISE
Now in its fifth season and in partnership with EA Graphics, concertgoers have the opportunity to purchase official Pine Knob merchandise at select shows, as well as online at stores.eagraphics.com/pineknob/shop/home.
KULTURECITY
All 313 Presents venues are certified sensory inclusive by KultureCity, the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to sensory accessibility and inclusion for individuals with invisible disabilities. Guests can access complimentary sensory bags at each venue’s Guest Services area, which include noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, weighted lap pads, and access to quiet areas for decompression.
KultureCity works to make public spaces more accessible for individuals with Autism, PTSD, Dementia, and other conditions that may cause sensory sensitivities. Through its Sensory Inclusive Certification program, the organization provides specialized training to venue staff and has certified more than 550 locations nationwide.
OPENGATE, BAG POLICY, MOBILE ENTRY, CASHLESS POLICY AND VENUE PROTOCOLS
The safety of guests, colleagues, and artists remains a top priority. Guests are encouraged to familiarize themselves with venue safety protocols, including mobile ticket entry, a no‑bag policy, and cashless transactions. Permitted items under the bag policy include wallets, clutches, fanny packs, and clear bags no larger than 4” x 6” x 1.5”, as well as approved medical and diaper bags.
OPENGATE Detection System metal detectors are now in place outside all venues, allowing fans to enter safely without removing items from their pockets. The system will be utilized at all entrances to provide faster, more efficient entry. Small bags will continue to be screened to maintain the same high standard of security for all guests.
For complete venue policies and protocols, visit www.313presents.com/venue.
SEASONAL WORK AVAILABLE
Ilitch Sports + Entertainment is now hiring seasonal staff to support operations at Pine Knob Music Theatre, Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre, and Meadow Brook Amphitheatre. Available positions include crowd managers, guest relations representatives, ushers, parking attendants, and maintenance crew members. Interested applicants can learn more and apply at www.districtdetroit.com/jobs.
ONE-STOP SHOP FOR CONCERT TICKETS
Tickets for most events are on sale now at"
