2011 in Michigan

2011 This article reviews the top news stories, sports stories, and cultural events occurring during the year 2011 in Michigan. Top stories The top news stories of 2011 in Michigan included: Rick Snyder's first year as Governor, including debate over his proposed budget cuts and changes in tax law, repeal of Michigan's item pricing law, passage of a new law authorizing emergency financial managers for cities and school districts to cancel union contracts, and his proposal to build a new bridge over the Detroit River; The July 7 Grand Rapids shootings in which 34-year-old Rodrick Shonte Dantzler killed seven people and wounded two others in a spree killing in two homes, and including a lengthy car chase, taking of hostages, and ending with Dantzler taking his own life; Detroit's financial crisis, as the city approached insolvency and city and state leaders debated whether state intervention was needed; A January 23 shootout at Detroit's Northwestern District police station in which a gunman entered the station and opened fire with a pistol-grip shotgun, shooting four officers after his house was raided earlier in the day based on allegations that he kidnapped a 13-year-old girl who he chained to a toilet in a basement and assaulted for nine days; The UAW's negotiation of new four-year contracts with the Big Three auto makers, including substantial signing bonuses and profit-sharing for workers. The top sports stories in Michigan during 2011 included: The Detroit Tigers winning the AL Central with Justin Verlander winning the Triple Crown of pitching, the Cy Young Award, and American League Most Valuable Player award, and Miguel Cabrera winning the American League batting title; The Detroit Lions advancing to playoffs with Matthew Stafford becoming the fourth quarterback in NFL history with 5,000 passing yards in a season and Calvin Johnson tallying 1,681 receiving yards; The Detroit Red Wings winning the Central Division led by Henrik Zetterberg; and Michigan football firing Rich Rodriguez, hiring Brady Hoke, and winning the Sugar Bowl. Notable cultural developments in Michigan during 2011 included: Eminem's two-minute "Imported from Detroit" Super Bowl commercial for Chrysler and promoting Detroit; Michigan artists (Eminem, BeBe & CeCe Winans, and Michael Daugherty) winning five Grammy Awards; the disbanding of The White Stripes; Alice Cooper's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame; President Obama's White House tribute to Motown; and the death of the "Mother of Motown", Esther Gordy Edwards. Notable Michigan-related deaths in 2011 included former First Lady Betty Ford; assisted suicide advocate Jack Kevorkian; Meijer founder Fred Meijer; former Congressman Howard Wolpe; former General Motors CEO Robert Stempel; and athletes Jim Northrup, Bubba Smith, Jim Mandich, Robert Traylor, and Lynn Chandnois. Office holders State office holders thumb|right|120px|Rick Snyder Governor of Michigan: Rick Snyder (Republican) Lieutenant Governor of Michigan: Brian Calley (Republican) Michigan Attorney General: Bill Schuette (Republican) Michigan Secretary of State: Ruth Johnson (Republican) Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives: Jase Bolger (Republican) Majority Leader of the Michigan Senate: Randy Richardville (Republican) Chief Justice, Michigan Supreme Court: Robert P. Young Jr. Mayors of major cities Mayor of Detroit: Dave Bing (Democrat) Mayor of Grand Rapids: George Heartwell Mayor of Warren, Michigan: James R. Fouts Mayor of Sterling Heights, Michigan: Richard J. Notte Mayor of Ann Arbor: John Hieftje (Democrat) Mayor of Dearborn: John B. O'Reilly Jr. Mayor of Lansing: Virgil Bernero Mayor of Flint: Dayne Walling Mayor of Saginaw: Greg Branch Federal office holders right|thumb|125px|Carl Levin right|thumb|125px|Debbie Stabenow U.S. Senator from Michigan: Debbie Stabenow (Democrat) U.S. Senator from Michigan: Carl Levin (Democrat) House District 1: Dan Benishek (Republican) House District 2: Bill Huizenga (Republican) House District 3: Justin Amash (Republican) House District 4: Dave Camp (Republican) House District 5: Dale Kildee (Democrat) House District 6: Fred Upton (Republican) House District 7: Tim Walberg (Republican) House District 8: Mike Rogers (Republican) House District 9: Sander Levin (Democrat) House District 10: Candice Miller (Republican) House District 11: David Curson (Democrat) House District 12: John Dingell (Democrat) House District 13: John Conyers (Democrat) House District 14: Gary Peters (Democrat) Sports Baseball 2011 Detroit Tigers season – Under manager Jim Leyland, the Tigers compiled a 95-67 record and finished first in the American League Central. Miguel Cabrera won the AL batting title (.344) and led the team with 48 home runs and 105 RBIs. Justin Verlander won the Triple Crown of pitching (24 wins, 250 strikeouts, 2.40 earned run average), the Cy Young award, and AL MVP award.2011 Detroit Tigers Statistics Sports Reference LLC Baseball-Reference.com November 18, 2025 https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/DET/2011.shtml American football 2011 Detroit Lions season - Led by head coach Jim Schwartz, the Lions compiled a 10–6 record and lost to the New Orleans Saints in a wild card game. Matthew Stafford became only the fourth quarterback in NFL history to pass for 5,000 yards in a season. Calvin Johnson led the NFL with 1,681 receiving yards.2011 Detroit Lions Statistics & Players Sports Reference LLC Pro-Football-Reference.com November 18, 2025 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2011.htm 2011 Michigan Wolverines football team - Under head coach Brady Hoke, the Wolverines compiled an 11-2 record, including a victory in the Sugar Bowl.2011 Michigan Wolverines Stats Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football November 18, 2025 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/michigan/2011.html 2011 Michigan State Spartans football team - In their fifth season under head coach Mark Dantonio, the Spartans compiled an 11–3 and lost to Georgia in the Outback Bowl. Kirk Cousins led the team with 3,316 passing yards.2011 Michigan State Spartans Stats Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football November 18, 2025 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/michigan-state/2011.html 2011 Wayne State Warriors football team - The Warriors compiled a 12–4 record and advanced to the Division II playoffs where they won four consecutive underdog road victories before losing in the national championship game to No. 1 Pittsburg State.Unranked but determined: Wayne State takes on Pittsburg State in Warriors' first title bid The Times Herald (Port Huron, Michigan) John Zenor Associated Press December 17, 2011 3B https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-herald-unranked-but-determined/170159532/ Newspapers.com Basketball 2010–11 Detroit Pistons season - Led by head coach John Kuester, the Pistons compiled a 30–52 record.Tayshaun Prince led the team with 1,098 points scored.2010–11 Detroit Pistons Roster and Stats Sports Reference LLC Basketball-Reference.com November 18, 2025 https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DET/2011.html 2010–11 Michigan Wolverines men's basketball team - In their fourth season under coach John Beilein, the Wolverines compiled a 21–14 record and advanced to the round of 32 in the NCAA tournament. Darius Morris led the team with 526 points scored and 235 assists, and Zack Novak led the team with 203 rebounds.2010-11 Michigan Wolverines Roster and Stats Sports Reference LLC SR CBB November 18, 2025 https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/schools/michigan/201q.html 2010–11 Michigan State Spartans men's basketball team - In their 16th year under Tom Izzo, the Spartans compiled a 19–15 record and were eliminated in the round of 64 at the NCAA tournament.2010-11 Michigan State Spartans Roster and Stats Sports Reference LLC SR CBB November 18, 2025 https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/schools/michigan-state/2011.html Ice hockey 2010–11 Detroit Red Wings season - Led by coach Mike Babcock, the team compiled a 47-25-10 record and lost to the San Jose Sharks in the conference semifinals. The team's statistical leaders included Henrik Zetterberg (56 assists, 80 points) and Johan Franzen (28 goals). Defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom was the captain.2010–11 Detroit Red Wings Roster and Statistics Sports Reference LLC Hockey-Reference.com November 18, 2025 https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/DET/2011.html 2010–11 Michigan Wolverines men's ice hockey season - Led by head coach Red Berenson, the Wolverines were the national runner up at the Frozen Four. Carl Hagelin led the team in goals (18), assists (31), and points (49).2010-11 Michigan Ice Hockey Statistics MGoBlue.com November 19, 2025 https://mgoblue.com/sports/mens-ice-hockey/stats/2010-11 Other Timothy Bradley vs. Devon Alexander 2011 Dow Corning Tennis Classic 2011 Pure Michigan 400 2011 Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips 400 2011 NCAA Bowling Championship Chronology of events January January 1 - Rick Snyder inaugurated as Governor of Michigan.Gov. Snyder Detroit Free Press January 2, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-snyder/185240232/ Newspaper.com His first 100 days included the repeal of Michigan's item pricing law and passage of a new law authorizing emergency financial managers for cities and school districts to cancel union contracts.Analyzing Snyder's First 100 Days Detroit Free Press April 10, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-snyders-100-days/185277906/ Newspapers.com January 11 - Michigan hired Brady Hoke as its new head football coach.Why Hoke Makes Sense Detroit Free Press January 12, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-hoke/185241228/ Newspapers.com January 14 - A Novi man, Mark Schons, killed his wife and two children and then himself.Dad kills family, then himself Detroit Free Press January 15, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-schons/185241623/ Newspapers.com January 17 - Peter Karmanos Jr. announced that he would step down as CEO of Compuware, the company he founded.Karmanos says he's ready to step away Detroit Free Press January 18, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-karmanos/185242105/ Newspapers.com January 19 - Gov. Rick Snyder delivered his first State of the State address. He pushed for a second bridge over the Detrit River.State of the State address: To revive Michigan, Snyder promises 'Job 1 is jobs' Detroit Free Press January 20, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-snyder/185242484/ Newspapers.com January 20 - Mary Barra named development chief at General Motors.Behind the Wheel at GM Detroit Free Press January 21, 2011 1 January 23 - A gunman entered at Detroit's Northwestern District police station and opened fire with a pistol-grip shotgun, shooting four officers.4 officers shot, gunman dead in 'horrifying' attack: Detroit police station in chaos as bullets fly Detroit Free Press January 24, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-4-officers-shot-gunm/185245893/ Newspapers.comA calm man unleashes chaos Detroit Free Press January 29, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-ford/185246838/ Newspapers.com The gunman was hit by five shots and killed.Gunaman hit by 5 shots, autopsy finds Detroit Free Press February 3, 2011 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gunaman-hit-by-5-shot/185247583/ Newspapers.com The gunman's house had been raided earlier in the day after a 13-year-old girl said she had been kidnapped and assaulted.Gunman suspected of kidnapping girl Detroit Free Press January 25, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gunman-suspected-of-k/185246108/ Newspapers.com The girl had been chained to a toilet in a basement for nine days.Police: Girl Held for 9 Days: Shooter's house yields clues -- before it burns Detroit Free Press January 26, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-police-girl-held-for/185246251/ Newspapers.comJust 13, Abducted and Scared Detroit Free Press January 28, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-just-13-abducted-and/185246610/ Newspapers.com January 24 - Dearborn mosque bombing plot: A 63-year-old California man was arrested and charged with terrorism in the parking lot of the Islamic Center of America. He had powerful fireworks in his vehicle. January 28 - Ford Motor Co. reported a $6.6 billion profit for FY 2010 and $5,000 bonus for workers.Ford makes $6.6 billion Detroit Free Press January 29, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-ford/185246838/ Newspapers.com February February 2 - The White Stripes announced the end of the band.White Stripes Go Out on Top Detroit Free Press February 3, 2011 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-white-stripes/185247462/ Newspapers.com February 4 - Ndamukong Suh selected as the NFL's rookie of the year. February 6 - Eminem starred in two-minute Super Bowl commercial ("Imported from Detroit") that praised Detroit and pitched the Chrysler 200.Fumbles & Extra Points Detroit Free Press February 7, 2011 D1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-fumbles-extra-point/185248014/ Newspapers.com'This Is the Motor City and This Is What We Do' Detroit Free Press February 8, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-this-is-the-motor-ci/185248114/ Newspapers.comChrysler's Eminem Super Bowl ad cranks up carmaker's cool quotient Detroit Free Press February 16, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-chryslers-eminem-sup/185249236/ Newspapers.com February 10 - Los Angeles financier Tom Gores agreed to pay Bill Davidson's widow $420 million for the Detroit Pistons, The Palace of Auburn Hills, and Pine Knob Music Theatre.Gores Strikes Deal for Pistons Detroit Free Press February 11, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gores-strikes-deal-fo/185248334/ Newspapers.comWhat's next in deal for the Pistons Detroit Free Press February 12, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-whats-next-in-deal-f/185248649/ Newspapers.comGores Goes for a Slam Dunk Detroit Free Press February 13, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gores-goes-for-a-slam/185248776/ Newspapers.com After multiple delays, the deal closed in April.Why Pistons Deal Needed OT: Economy, liquor license among hurdles for Goes Detroit Free Press April 9, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-pistons-deal/185277480/ Newspapers.comNew owner Tom Gores talks, sings, dances Detroit Free Press April 12, 2011 B1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gores/185278213/ The NBA approved the sale at the end of May.NBA Approves Sale of Pistons to Gores Detroit Free Press June 1, 2011 1B https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gores/185368082/ Newspapers.com February 13 - At the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards, Eminem won the awards for best rap album ("Recovery") and best rap solo performance ("Not Afraid"). Other Michigan winners were BeBe & CeCe Winans ("Grace" and "Still") and Michael Daugherty ("Deux Ex Machina"). The ceremony included a tribute to Aretha Franklin.53rd Annual Grammy Awards Detroit Free Press February 14, 2011 D1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-53rd-annual-grammy-aw/185249091/ Newspapers.com February 16 - Detroit Tigers star Miguel Cabrera was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol during spring training in Florida. February 24 - President Barack Obama hosted a tribute to Motown at the White House. The event included performances by Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder, and Martha Reeves.Motown at the heart of U.S. soul, Obama says: At White House tribue, stars share tales of achieving dreams Detroit Free Press February 25, 2011 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-motown-tribute/185263502/ Newspapers.com March March - Throughout the month, there was debate over Governor Snyder's proposed budget cuts and changes in tax laws. March 3 - At a high school basketball game in Fennville, 16-year-old Wes Leonard scored the winning basket as time ran out to give the team its 20th consecutive win. During the post-game celebration, Leonard collapsed and died, his heart having stopped. He was found to have a rare heart disorder, and his death raise questions about screening for such conditions and the importance of proper medical equipment.Small-town hero lost in an instant Detroit Free Press February 5, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-wes-leonard/185271085/ Newspapers.comHeartbreak tears at town Detroit Free Press February 6, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-wes-leonard/185271279/ Newspapers.comTears and triumph: 'Wes Is There on That Court'; Fennville rallies to win in first game since player's death Detroit Free Press March 8, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-tears-and-triumph-w/185271562/ Newspapers.comWes Leonard 1995-2011: Farewell Touches Hearts Detroit Free Press March 9, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-wes-leonard/185271682/ Newspapers.com March 12 - Detroit schools emergency financial manager Robert Bobb announced his Renaissance Plan 2012 to convert 41 poorly performing schools into charter school academies. March 14 - Detroit native Alice Cooper was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He was the 18th Detroit performer to be inducted, giving the city 10% of the entire hall of fame.Alice Cooper: I'm Detroit's 18th Detroit Free Press March 14, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-alice-cooper/185272362/ Newspapers.com March 22 - Results of the 2010 Census showed that Detroit continued to shrink, losing 25% of its population in the decade, while Macomb County grew by 6.7%.A Shifting Michigan: What It Means To Us Detroit Free Press March 23, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-census/185273051/ Newspapers.com April April - Continued debate over Governor Snyder's budget and his proposals to build a new bridge across the Detroit River and to cut the movie tax credit. April 1 - Ford announced that its top two executives, CEO Alan Mulally and executive chairman William Clay Ford Jr. each received $26.5 million as a reward for the company's $6.6 billion 2010 profit.Ford's top 2 execs each get $26.5M: Mulally, Ford Rewarded for '10 Profit Detroit Free Press April 2, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-ford/185274434/ Newspapers.com April 1 - Dennis Rodman's jersey was retired in a ceremony at The Palace.Now It's the Worm's Turn Detroit Free Press April 2, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-rodman/185274171/ Newspapers.com April 4 - Detroit Symphony Orchestra musicians voted to return to work. April 7 - Dan Gilbert's Quicken Loans bought the 14-story Chase Tower, the former NBD headquarters, in downtown Detroit. Gilbert renamed it The Qube and relocated 4,000 of the company's employees to the facility.Gilbert builds on vision for downtown Detroit Free Press April 8, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gilbert/185277179/ Newspapers.com May May 12 - Governor Snyder's sweeping changes to Michigan tax policy passed, including a $1.7-billion business tax cut and increases in taxes on individuals.Shifting the Tax Burden: Will Jobs Follow? Detroit Free Press May 13, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-shifting-the-tax-burd/185311530/ Newspapers.com May 17 - Bob Seger, at age 66, played the first of four concerts at The Palace in Auburn Hills.Back Home, Seger Rocks Detroit Free Press May 18, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-seger/185311828/ Newspapers.com May 17 - Michigan State's Gene Washington and Michigan's Lloyd Carr were elected to the College Football Hall of Fame. May 24 - Chrysler repaid in full and ahead of schedule all the money it borrowed from the U.S. and Canadian governments.Chrysler pays up, more work ahead Detroit Free Press May 25, 2025 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-chrysler/185312398/ Newspapers.com June June 22 - Nicklas Lidstrom won the Norris Trophy for the seventh time in his career.7th Wonder Detroit Free Press June 23, 2011 1C https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-lidstrom/185369432/ Newspapers.com June 26 - The Detroit Tigers retire Sparky Anderson's jersey No. 11 at a ceremony at Comerica Park.Sparky Detroit Free Press June 27, 2011 1C https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-sparky/185369737/ Newspapers.com July July 7 - 2011 Grand Rapids shootings: 34-year-old Rodrick Shonte Dantzler killed seven people and wounded two others in a spree killing in Grand Rapids.Horror in Grand Rapids Detroit Free Press July 8, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-horror-in-grand-rapid/185370640/ Newspapers.comBefore rampage, he had history of violent outbursts Detroit Free Press July 9, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-before-rampage-he-ha/185370793/ Newspapers.com August August 2 - Kwame Kilpatrick was released from state prison after serving 14 months for violating his terms of probation in connection with the Kilpatrick and Beatty text-messaging scandal and Kilpatrick-Beatty criminal trial. The federal public corruption case remained pending against him.Kilpatrick yearns to start anew, but another trial is looming Detroit Free Press August 3, 2011 3A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-kilpatrick/185391609/ Newspapers.com August 3 - In the Tamara Greene wrongful death case, Magistrate Judge Steven Whalen urged the judge to assess legal fees and tell the jury that the city "intentionally, willfully and recklessley" failed to preserve emails relating to the slaying of the exotic dancer.Court rips city in Greene case Detroit Free Press August 4, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-tamara-greene-case/185392167/ Newspapers.com August 10 - Detroit native Philip Levine, known for his poems about working-class Detroit, Was named as the 18th poet laureatee by the Librarian of Congress.Poet Laureate Captures City's Soul Detroit Free Press August 11, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-philip-levine/185393238/ Newspapers.com August 20 - Woodward Dream Cruise August 21 - Wing walker Todd Green fell 200 feet to his death before a crowd of 75,000 at the Selfridge Air Show.Selfridge Air Show Tragedy: Stunt man plunges 200 feet to death Detroit Free Press August 22, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-selfridge-air-show-tr/185394188/ Newspapers.com August 25 - Aretha Franklin concert at DTE Energy Music Theatre August 27 - Justin Verlander won his 20th game of the season, the firsst Tiger to reach the mark in 20 years. September September 5 - President Obama saluted the auto recovery and vowed to defend union rights in Detroit speech. September 7 - Three former Detroit Red Wings players (Brad McCrimmon, Ruslan Salei and Stefan Liv died in a plane crash in Russia.Hockey tragedy: 3 Former Wings Die in Crash Detroit Free Press September 8, 2011 1C https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-3-former-wings/185364445/ Newspapers.com September 10 - Michigan defeated Notre Dame, 35–31, in the first night game at Michigan Stadium. September 12 - Co-defendant Derrick Miller agreed to a plea deal requiring him to testify against former Detroit mayor Kwame Kilpatrick in bribery prosecution. September 17 - General Motors and UAW agree to four-year contract.GM, UAW Reach Deal: New Jobs, Better Pay Among the Terms Detroit Free Press September 17, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gm-uaw-reach-deal/185365403/ Newspapers.comGM and UAW: Deal Is a Victory for All Detroit Free Press September 18, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gm-uaw-deal/185365251/ Newspapers.comGM Deal To Add or Preserve 6,000 Jobs: More details of 4-year contract unveiled today Detroit Free Press September 20, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gm-deal-to-add-or-pre/185365563/ Newspapers.comUAW pitches GM deal as 'jobs, jobs, jobs' Detroit Free Press September 21, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-uaw-pitches-gm-deal/185365712/ Newspapers.com October October 4 - Ford reached agreement with the UAW, including $6,000 signing bonuses for workers with over one year of seniority and accelerated profit-sharing of $3,752 based on profit in first half of 2011.UAW, Ford Reach Agreement: Deal May Be Tough To Sell Detroit Free Press October 5, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-ford-uaw/185327579/ Newspapers.com October 7 - Two films shot in Michigan (The Ides of March and Real Steel) opened in theaters.Films shot in state hitting theaters Detroit Free Press October 7, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-ides/185327852/ Newspapers.com October 12 - Underwear bomber Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab pleaded guilty to charges against him, including the attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction and the attempted murder of the 289 people on Northwest Airlines Flight 253. At the hearing, he warned America to stop killing innocent Muslims.Underwear bomber: U.S. risks 'calamity' Detroit Free Press October 13, 2011 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-underwear-bomber/185328560/ Newspapers.com October 13 - Police officer Trevor Slot was killed in a chase following a bank robbery at the ChoiceOne Bank in Ravenna. Slot was struck by the robbers' vehicle as he tried to lay down stop strips.Officer mourned The Grand Rapids Press October 14, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-grand-rapids-press-officer-mourned/185229773/ Newspapers.com'They snowed everybody' The Grand Rapids Press October 15, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-grand-rapids-press-they-snowed-ever/185229613/ [[Newspa<rpers.com]] October 15 - The Detroit Tigers lost to the Texas Rangers in the fifth and final game of the 2011 American League Championship Series.What a Ride Detroit Free Press October 16, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-tigers/185328794/ Newspapers.com October 20 - Gov. Snyder's proposal to build a second bridge over the Detroit River failed to gain approval in Michigan Senate.After defeat, bridge backer to take timeout Detroit Free Press October 21, 2011 1 November November 1 - U.S. District Judge Gerald E. Rosen issued a 102-page decision dismissing the wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of Tamara Greene. After six years of contentious litigation, Rosen found no evidence that Kwame Kilpatrick or other city officials obstructed or interfered with the investiation into Greene's murder.Judge: No Cover-Up in Greene Murder; He tosses lawsuit, finds no proof the investigation was sabotaged Detroit Free Press November 2, 2011 1A, 6A, 7A, 8A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-greene-murder/185418125/ Newspapers.com Two weeks later, on November 17, Judge Rosen ruled that he would release much of the sealed transcripts, affidavits and other documents in the case.Judge to release Greene case documents: They factored into his decision to toss out lawsuit, he says Detroit Free Press David Ashenfelter November 18, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-tamara-greene-case/185418788/ Newspapers.com November 2 - Detroit mayor Dave Bing said that the city was sliding closer to insolvency and may run out of money by February and need a state-appointed emergency manager.Bing: Detroit May Need Manager; Pension, health costs draining city coffers Detroit Free Press November 3, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-emergency-manager/185331343/ Newspapers.comEmergency manager threat real, Bing says Detroit Free Press November 4, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-emergency-manager/185331203/ Newspapers.com November 8 - Detroit voters approved a new city charter. November 9 - Republican Presidential debate at Oakland University features eight candidates, including Mitt Romney, Herman Cain, Rick Perry, and Rick Santorum. November 14 - An internal report was leaked indicating that, without cuts, Detroit would be out of cash by April.Without cuts, city out of cash by April November 15, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-city-out-of-cash-by-a/185334287/ Newspapers.com November 16 - Justin Verlander won the Cy Young Award. November 18 - Detroit mayor Dave Bing announced layoffs of 1,000 city workers. November 21 - Justin Verlander won the American League MVP award. November 23 - Detroit mayor Dave Bing blasts city council and unions for failing to accept his proposals to stave off insolvency. November 24 - Ndamukong Suh ejected from the Lions' Thanksgiving Day game after stomping an opposing player. He was suspended for two games. November 26 - Michigan beat Ohio State for the first time since 2003. November 29 - Dave Bing said he didn't want emergency manager job, insisted Detroit could manage its financial crisis. November 30 - Brady Hoke named Big Ten coach of the year. December December 1 - Detroit mayor Dave Bing insisted the city could fix its financial crisis, but Gov. Rick Snyder advised that time was running out.City to Snyder: We'll fix Detroit Detroit Free Press December 2, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-city-to-snyder/185336654/ Newspapers.com The next day, Michigan Treasurer Andy Dillon ordered a review of the city's finances.State orders Detroit financial review Detroit Free Press December 3, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-detroit-financial-rev/185336565/ Newspapers.comCan Detroit fix itself Detroit Free Press December 4, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-detroit-financial-cri/185336454/ Newspapers.com One week later, Snyder suggested a consent deal with Detroit, but threatened an emergency manager if no agreement was reached.Snyder: Let State Help; Detroit: Leave It To Us Detroit Free Press December 8, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-snyder-to-detroit/185336966/ Newspapers.com December 6 - U.S. District Judge Gerald E. Rosen ordered the city of Detroit to pay $167,000 of the $735,000 in attorneys fees sought by the Tamara Greene family's lawyers led by Norman Yatooma. The fees were for work in trying to prove the city destroyed emails, Rosen finding that the city and its law departement behaved badly and "have only themselves to blame for this self-inflicted wound."Detroit told to pay Yatooma $167,000: Destroyed e-mails in Tamara Greene case to cost city Detroit Free Press December 10, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-tamara-greene-case/185419168/ Newspapers.com December 13 - U.S. Trnsporation Ray LaHood informed Detroit mayor Dave Bing that the plan to build light rail along Woodward Avenue was scrapped due to concerns that the city would be unable to pay operating costs over the long term.Light-Rail Plan Scrapped Detroit Free Press December 14, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-light-rail-plan-scrap/185421976/ Newspapers.com December 17 - The Wayne State football team played in, but lost, the Division II national championship game.Unranked but determined: Wayne State takes on Pittsburg State in Warriors' first title bid The Times Herald (Port Huron, Michigan) John Zenor Associated Press December 17, 2011 3B https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-herald-unranked-but-determined/170159532/ Newspapers.comPittsburg State 35, Wayne State 21: Injuries, turnovers lead to heartbreak; Warriors start strong, then fight to finish after Gorillas seize lead on blocked FG Detroit Free Press Shawn Windsor December 18, 2011 9C https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-pittburg-state-35-wa/170157265/ Newspapers.com December 21 - A state report found that Detroit's financial crisis was deeper than previously reported with $12.3 billion in debt.It's Even Worse Than We Thought Detroit Free Press December 22, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-detroit-financial-cri/185338000/ Newspapers.com Deaths The following is a list of deaths during 2011 of notable individuals associated with Michigan: January 11 - Bernadine Newsom Denning, anti-nuclear activist, at age 80 or 81 January 14 - Mary P. Sinclair, environmental activist, at age 92Anti-nuclear activist dug deep, son says The Saginaw News January 20, 2011 A5 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-saginaw-news-sinclair/185294262/ Newspapers.com January 31 - Michael Tolan, actor, at age 85Michael Tolan, 85: Actor co-founded successful Off Broadway house The Miami Herald February 7, 2011 4B https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-miami-herald-michael-tolan/185301572/ Newspapers.com February 14 - James Giftos, founder of National Coney IslandJames Giftos: Founder of National Coney Island February 16, 2011 8A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-giftos/185294510/ Newspapers.com February 22 - Dwayne McDuffie, comic book writer, at age 49 February 23 - James Damman, lieutenant governor (1975-79), at age 78James Damman: He found success in, out of politics Detroit Free Press February 28, 2011 6A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-damman/185294762/ Newspapers.com February 26 - Ed Frutig, All-American end at Michigan, at age 92Packers' last survivor from 1941 playoff dies Green Bay Press-Gazette March 3, 2011 B2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/green-bay-press-gazette-frutig/185294963/ Newspapers.com February 26 - Zhu Guangya, Chinese nuclear physicist and University of Michigan alumnus, at age 86 March 29 - Jim Seymour, All-American wide receiver and Royal Oak Shrine alumnus, at age 64 April 19 - Lynn Chandnois, MSU All-American back (1948-50), at age 86Spartan great Chandnois dies at 86 Lansing State Journal April 22, 2011 8B https://www.newspapers.com/article/lansing-state-journal-chandnois/185295316/ Newspapers.com April 19 Norm Masters, MSU All-American tackle 1955, at age 77 April 26 - Jim Mandich, U-M tight end (1967-69), College Football Hall of Fame, at age 62University of Michigan tight end Mandich dead at 62 The Bay City Times April 28, 2011 B3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-bay-city-times-mandich/185295603/ Newspapers.com May 7 - Robert Stempel, chairman/CEO General Motors (1990-92), at age 77Robert Stempel, electric-car pioneer at GM The Palm Beach Post May 11, 2011 7B https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-palm-beach-post-stempel/185302159/ Newspapers.com May 11 - Robert Traylor, U-M basketball (1995-98), at age 34Ex-GM chief Robert Stempel dies The Port Huron Times Herald May 11, 2011 2A https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-herald-stempell/185295795/ Newspapers.com May 15 - John Feikens, US District Court Judge in Detroit, at age 93Feikens unafraid to push the limits Detroit Free Press May 17, 2011 5A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-feikens/185295969/ Newspapers.com May 19 - Don H. Barden, first black casino owner in Las Vegas, at age 67 June 3 - Jack Kevorkianj, euthanasia advocate,Reviled and Revered: He Sparked a Debate on Death Detroit Free Press June 4, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-kevorkian/185368423/ Newspapers.comKevorkian a lightning rod for debate, controversy Detroit Free Press June 4, 2011 5A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-kevorkian/185296191/ Newspapers.com June 4 - Lilian Jackson Braun, Detroit Free Press editor and author of The Cat Who... books, at age 97Lilian Jackson Braun: Writer of 'Cat who' series dies Detroit Free Press June 8, 2011 D1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-braun/185296404/ Newspapers.com June 8 - Jim Northrup, Detroit Tigers (1964-74), at age 71Jim Northrup 1939-2011: This hero of '68 Series was king of grand slam Detroit Free Press June 9, 2011 6C https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-northrup/185296601/ Newspapers.com June 28 - Newt Loken, UM gymnastics coach for 36 years, at age 92 June 30 - Barry Bremen, "The Great Imposter" and a native of metro Detroit, at age 64Great Impostor dies at 64 Detroit Free Press July 7, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-bremen/185370501/ Newspapers.com July 2 - Reeve Maclaren Bailey, icthyologist, at age 100 July 8 - Betty Ford, former First Lady, at age 93Betty Ford Remembered 1918-2011 The Grand Rapids Press July 10, 2011 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-grand-rapids-press-betty-ford/185296809/ Newspapers.com July 20 - Jim Maddock, U-M quarterback (1954-56), at age 76Maddock, Ex-QB, Dies Detroit Free Press July 23, 2011 2B https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-maddoc/185296980/ Newspapers.com August 3 - Bubba Smith, defensive end at Michigan State (1964–1966), College Football Hall of Fame, at age 66Charles Aaron "Bubba" Smith, 1945-2011: Bubba: Great player and a trailblazer Detroit Free Press August 4, 2011 3C https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-charles-aaron-bubba/185302501/ Newspapers.com August 3 - Jackie Hudson, Dominican nun and anti-nuclear weapons activist, at age 76Nuclear weapons activist dies: Blood cancer causes death of Jackie Hudson Kitsap Sun August 6, 2011 3A https://www.newspapers.com/article/kitsap-sun-jackie-hudson/185301282/ Newspapers.com August 9 - Eleanor Josaitis, civi rights activist and co-founder of Focus: HOPE, at age 73Eleanor Josaitis: A gift to Detroit for 43 years Detroit Free Press August 10, 2011 6A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-josaitis/185297148/ Newspapers.com August 17 - Warren Samuels, Michigan State economics professor, at age 77 August 24 - Esther Gordy Edwards, created Motown Museum, known as "Mother of Motown", at age 91Esther Gordy Edwards 1920-2011: The Soul of Motown; She helped develop talent and preserve its history Detroit Free Press Brian McCollum August 26, 2011 4A https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-esther-gordy-edwards/185301931/ Newspapers.comPaying Tribute to Esther Gordy Edwards: Matriarch Kept Motown in Tune Detroit Free Press September 1, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-gordy/185363862/ Newspapers.com September 20 - Marv Tarplin, guitarist for The Miracles, at age 70 September 27 - Dave Hill, golfer, at age 74Jackson pro golfer Dave Hill dies at 74 Jackson Citizen Patriot September 28, 2011 B1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/jackson-citizen-patriot-dave-hill/185302715/ Newspapers.com October 25 - Howard Wolpe, US Congress (1979-93), at age 71Wolpe 'a legend' in local politics: Former congressman got his start on City Commission The Kalamazoo Gazette October 27, 2011 A8 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-kalamazoo-gazette-wolpe/185298071/ Newspapers.com November 1 - Arthur Johnson, human rights activist, educator and arts advocate, at age 85Arthur Johnson 1925-2011: Civil rights icon battled bias in Detroit Detroit Free Press November 2, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-arthur-johnson/185330795/ Newspapers.com November 25 - Frederik Meijer, founder of Meijer, at age 91Frederik Meijer: Dec 7, 1919 - Nov. 25, 2011; Grocery magnate Meijer dies at 91 The Grand Rapids Press November 26, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-grand-rapids-press-meijer/185298280/ Newspapers.com November 29 - Carl Robie, U-M swimmer and Olympic silver medalist, at age 66Carl J. Robie III, Olympic swimmer The Philadelphia Inquirer December 2, 2011 C12 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-philadelphia-inquirer-robie/185300772/ Newspapers.com December 7 - Harry Morgan, actor and Detroit native, at age 96Muskegon's Harry Morgan dead at 96 Muskegon Chronicle September 8, 2011 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-muskegon-chronicle-muskegons-harry/185302921/ Newspapers.com December 14 - Mark Francis Schmitt, bishop of Marquette, at age 88Schmitt, area priest, U.P. bishop, dies at 88 Green Bay Press-Gazette December 15, 2011 A3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/green-bay-press-gazette-schmitt-area-pr/185303219/ Newspapers.com December 17 - Harley Sewell, Detroit Lions guard/linebacker (1953-62), at age 80 See also History of Michigan History of Detroit References 30em