New black-tie event aims to fuel the bold transformation of Michigan’s Downtown 

LANSING, Mich. (August 19, 2024) - Downtown Lansing Inc. (DLI), the management agency championing the revitalization of Michigan’s Downtown, announced today that it will host its first-ever Big Red Ball fundraiser on December 7, 2024, at the historic Atrium Building located at 215 S. Washington Square in Downtown Lansing. Presented by New Vision Lansing, LLC, the inaugural black-tie event will be co-chaired by Senator Sarah Anthony and Nikki Thompson-Fraizer, DLI board member and owner of Sweet Encounter Bakery & Cafe.   

“The Big Red Ball is more than just a night of celebration; it’s a rallying call for all who want to see the bold transformation of Michigan’s Downtown,” said Cathleen Edgerly, Executive Director of DLI. “We’re so fortunate to have many great supporters like Sarah and Nikki along with our entire 2024 Hosting Committee who share the same passion and tenacity that we do to see a diverse, strong and thriving downtown district. It’s time to work together to uplift community, commerce, arts and entertainment in our downtown to lead the way forward for our state.”   

The Big Red Ball will bring together community and business leaders from across the state in a shared mission to support the transformation of Michigan’s downtown. Guests are invited to purchase their tickets for an evening celebration featuring entertainment, connectivity and plenty of surprises, all designed to highlight the importance of community engagement in the ongoing transformation of Downtown Lansing while raising funds for DLI and its mission to strengthen and nurture the culture, health and sustainability of Downtown Lansing.   

“It’s an honor to support the first-ever Big Red Ball and the vibrant vision DLI has for Downtown Lansing,” said Paul Gentilozzi, owner of New Vision Lansing, LLC. “As this year’s presenting sponsor, we’re excited to help bring stakeholders from across the state of Michigan together to help drive the economic and cultural development of our downtown, an integral district fueling the vitality of the Greater Lansing region and our state.”   

In addition to its co-chairs, the Big Red Ball is organized by its 2024 hosting committee, which includes Gentilozzi, Samantha Harkins, Michelle Reynaert and Peter Spadafore.   

Additional sponsors for the Big Red Ball are Government Consulting Services Inc., Michigan Realtors, Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association, Midwest Strategy Group, For Good Foundation and Redhead Creative Consultancy.   

Tickets for the Big Red Ball are now available for $150 per ticket, and sponsorship opportunities are open for those looking to make a bold impact. For those seeking to purchase a ticket, sponsor the event or donate, more information can be found by visiting TheBigRedBall.com.  

About Downtown Lansing Inc. 
Downtown Lansing Inc. (DLI) is the downtown management agency dedicated to revitalizing and promoting economic development, urban planning, and community engagement in Michigan’s Downtown. A certified Main Street organization, DLI’s mission is to strengthen and nurture the culture, health, and sustainability of Downtown Lansing. Downtown Lansing is home to nearly 200 unique businesses, offering global dining experiences, wide-ranging retail offerings and unique events and attractions for all ages at all times of the day. In 2024, DLI received recognition as an industry-leading Main Street organization after being named a top 10 semifinalist in the 2024 Great American Main Street Award. Learn more about DLI at DowntownLansing.org.  

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