Today is World Press Freedom Day, a celebration the United Nations established more than 30 years ago to remind us that a free press is essential to a functioning and ethical society and is a critical force for the public good. It’s also the 54th Birthday of National Public Radio, born on this date in 1971,

What’s Happening:

The Tigers defeated the Los Angeles Angels 9–1 on May 2, 2025, powered by an explosive eight-run ninth inning. Outfielder Riley Greene made history by hitting two home runs in the same inning—the first time this has ever happened in the ninth inning of an MLB game. The Tigers face the Angels again tonight, May 3, at Angel Stadium in Anaheim with first pitch set for 9:07 PM ET.

Today in History:

1919 – Air passenger service began in the U.S. when pilot Robert Hewitt flew two women from New York to Atlantic City and back, aboard an Aeromarine Model 50 S Flying Boat.

1960 – The musical “The Fantasticks,” starring Jerry Orbach and Rita Gardner, opened at the Sullivan Street Playhouse, a small off-Broadway theater in New York City’s Greenwich Village. The show became the longest running musical in theater history on May 13, 1984 with performance number 10,000. The production finally closed on January 13, 2002 after a record-shattering 17,162 performances.

1964 – Gerry and the Pacemakers made their U.S. television debut on “The Ed Sullivan Show” on CBS singing “Don’t Let the Sun Catch You Crying.” Stevie Wonder sang “Fingertips,”

1966 – The Temptations released the single “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg.”

1967 – The Hollies recorded “Carrie Anne.” The song reached No. 3 on the U.K. Singles Chart and was also a hit in the U.S. and Canada, peaking at No. 9 on both pop charts. It also reached No. 4 in the Irish charts. Fun fact: Actress Carrie-Anne Moss (The Matrix, Memento, Jessica Jones) was named by her mother in honor of the song, which was released three months before her birth.

1968 – Not to be outdone by the Beatles, the Beach Boys began an 18-date tour with the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi as the opening act. The plan backfired as half the dates had to be canceled due to lack of interest.

1971 – National Public Radio began operations, with 112 station affiliates, mostly at colleges and universities.

1976 – Paul McCartney’s Wings Over America Tour opened in Fort Worth, Texas. It was his first U.S. concert appearance in a decade.

1986 – The Rolling Stones peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 Album Chart with Dirty Work. They also peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with their cover of “Harlem Shuffle.”

1986 – The Silver Dollar City Tennessee amusement park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee was reopened as “Dollywood” after Dolly Parton took an ownership stake.

Today’s Birthdays:

• Bing Crosby was born today in 1903.
• American folk singer and social activist Pete Seeger was born on this day in 1919.
• James Brown was born today in 1933.
• Four Seasons frontman Frankie Valli is 91.
• Pete Staples of The Troggs is 81.
• Christopher Cross is 74.

Detroit-Based Free Events – May 3, 2025

1. Riverfront Fish Fest at Milliken State Park
   A family-friendly celebration of fishing and Great Lakes wildlife featuring educational booths, kids’ fishing, and live sturgeon displays on Detroit’s riverfront.

2. Free Comic Book Day at Detroit Public Library (Wilder Branch)
   Visitors of all ages can pick up free comics and enjoy crafts and themed activities at one of Detroit’s main library branches.

3. #CareFreeBlackGirl Cookout Detroit at Foxglove
   A lively community event celebrating Black women and culture with music, food, vendors, and performances in an outdoor setting.

4. Youth Financial Literacy Workshop at TechTown Detroit
   A free hands-on seminar teaching essential money skills and budgeting tips to teens and young adults.

5. Stomping Out Substance Abuse Health Fair at Durfee Innovation Society
   A community fair providing health screenings, addiction prevention resources, and family-friendly fun.

6. Cinco de Mayo Day Party at Society Detroit
   A cultural day party featuring festive music and community connection—entry is free with RSVP.

7. Urban Garden Volunteering at HUDA Garden
   Help plant, weed, and beautify Detroit’s HUDA Urban Garden while learning about food justice and sustainable gardening.

8. First-Time Homebuyers Workshop at Rosa Detroit
   Learn how to navigate the home-buying process in this free session led by housing experts and financial counselors.

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Elsewhere in Michigan

1. Tulip Time Festival Opening Day – Holland, MI
   Celebrate Dutch heritage with thousands of tulips, parades, and traditional dancing—many outdoor activities are free.

2. Midland Farmers Market Opening Day – Midland, MI
   Enjoy fresh local produce, artisan foods, and community engagement at the kickoff of Midland’s seasonal market.

3. Spring Bazaar at American Legion – Morley, MI
   A small-town craft and vendor fair featuring handmade goods, baked treats, and raffles—all with free admission.

4. McCoy’s Family Craft Day – Midland, MI
   Families can paint flowerpots, enjoy snacks, and take home their creations at this no-cost community event.

5. Community Talent Show – Idlewild, MI
   Celebrate local performers at a talent showcase highlighting the voices and talents of Idlewild residents.