Premier Issue October 2004
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Page 24 The ladies who protect our vote
The Sisterhood of Media (Carolyn, Rhonda, Glenda, Fanchon and Robbin)
In this issue 2
The Synthesis
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Premier Issue • October 2004
Coire Nichols Houston
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For Your Health Crystal Martin, M.D.
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Community Chronicles Edward Foxworth, III
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It Takes a Village Kimberly Allen Bradfield
10 JAM Sessions Jamillah A. Muhammad
11 Our Obligations Daniel A. Baxter
12 TECHnology Herman Houston, MCSE
14 Healthy Hair JaNiece Gray Hill
21 The Fashion Beat Jennifer James
22 Temple Anointing Rachel Orange
27 Power 2 Our People K. Charles Draper
Carolyn Clifford, Robbin Simmons, Fanchon Stinger, Glenda Lewis and Rhonda Walker
16 Cover story: The sisterhood of media Lolita Standifer and Coire D. Nichols Houston Gabrielle Dowdell, Lawrence Laurent, Robeere Lett and Mark England, Stylists from Julian Scott Department Store Jon Stewart, Photographer
Michael Micahnik
chouston@fuzion-mag.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Brenda Lewis blewis@fuzion-mag.com
Feature story: 24 The ladies who protect our vote Joe Hudson for Fuzion Magazine
DESIGN DIRECTOR
Pamela Houston Hines phouston@fuzion-mag.com SENIOR EDITOR
Lolita Standifer lstandifer@fuzion-mag.com SENIOR CORRESPONDENT
Reginald Dokes
CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS
Herman Houston, MCSE
Daniel A. Baxter
hhouston@fuzion-mag.com
dbaxter@fuzion-mag.com
Jennifer James
Jospeh Boyer
jjames@fuzion-mag.com
jboyer@fuzion-mag.com
Crystal Martin, M.D.
Kimberly Allen Bradfield
cmartin@fuzion-mag.com
kbradfield@fuzion-mag.com
Michael Micahnik
K. Charles Draper
mmicahnik@fuzion-mag.com
kdraper@fuzion-mag.com
Jamillah A. Muhammad
Edward Foxworth, III
jmuhammad@fuzion-mag.com
efoxworth@fuzion-mag.com
Rachel Orange
JaNiece Gray Hill
rorange@fuzion-mag.com
jgray@fuzion-mag.com
rdokes@fuzion-mag.com
We would love to hear from you. Please send your comments and suggestions to: Letters@Fuzion-Mag.com
COPY EDITOR
Jon Stewart jstewart@fuzion-mag.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
EDITORIAL CONTACT
Fuzion Magazine — Detroit PO Box 201127 Ferndale, MI 48220 313-341-9512
Copyright 2004 CDN Communications, LLC. Premier issue (ISSN 15527123). All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express consent of the publisher. Published in the U.S.A. Fuzion Magazine is a trademark of CDN Communications, LLC.
FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
30 The Bistro
Coire D. Nichols Houston
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Joseph Boyer
October 2004
28 Counselor’s Corner
The Synthesis Coire D. Nichols Houston
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elcome to Fuzion Magazine — Detroit. For as long as I can remember, I have been a giving person and a staunch believer that everything happens for a reason. I have been in many situations in life and have seen many things, both good and bad. I must say that outside of my marriage to Herman and the birth of my two children, Brieon Denise and Herman IV, this has to be one of the most important periods in my life.
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I have had the opportunity to meet eight of the most wonderful women imaginable. They are true representations of what greatness is. They range from two true icons — Diana Lewis, anchorwoman, WXYZ Channel 7 and Jackie L. Currie, Detroit’s city clerk — to those who have been around but whom we know very little about — anchorwomen Fanchion Stinger, WKBD Fox 2, Carolyn Clifford, WXYZ Channel 7, Rhonda Walker, WDIV Local 4, Glenda Lewis, WXYZ Channel 7 and Gloria Williams, Detroit’s director of elections — to our newest sister of media, Robbin Simmons, WDIV Local 4. In the premier edition of our magazine, you will find some of the most talented individuals who all share a common vision — bringing back the values and morals that were instilled in us as African Americans. The common theme in our magazine is our commitment and dedication to informing our readers about issues, events and our roles as citizens in efforts to “fuze” our community together as one! We discuss issues such as health and legal matters, the importance to self-love and our jobs as parents and role models to our youth. We invite your suggestions on building our community. As I said at the beginning, I have always been one who gives. I truly believe that is my purpose and what God has sent me here to do. As we continue to grow as a publication, I challenge you to con-
tinue to read and grow along side with us. Detroit, this is my gift to you. I hope that you will enjoy our magazine and share it with others. Please feel free to share your thoughts, ideas and suggestions with us. Do enjoy … With love, peace and prosperity always, Coire Coire D. Nichols Houston is the publisher and editor-in-chief of Fuzion Magazine — Detroit She is also the president/CEO of CDN Communications, LLC. Feel free to contact her at Chouston@Fuzion-Mag.com.
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The Lending Corner This week in the Lending Corner, I wanted to discuss one of the more popular financing products in the market today — “Option Arms.” As one of hundreds of available products, it is fast becoming a product of choice. Below I will describe for you in detail. With Flagstar’s Option Power Arm program, borrowers can choose one of four payment options on their loan. These options offer lower initial interest rates than fixed-rate mortgages and low minimum payments that adjust annually. Your options are as follows: • • • •
Option One — Minimum payment. The smallest payment to allow you the most cash on hand. Option Two — Full interest payment. Keep payments manageable while paying all monthly interest. Option Three — Fully amortized 30-year payment. Reduce the principal and pay off your loan as scheduled. Option Four — Fully amortized 15-year payment. Own your home in half the time.
This program can be used to purchase 1-unit primary, secondary and investment properties, or refinance the same with loan amounts up to $1,500,000.* In sum, the Option Power Arm is a variable-rate mortgage loan with annual payment adjustments and monthly interest rate adjustments, after an initial fixed-rate period of three (3) months. Because interest rate adjusts more frequently than the payment, deferred interest may result whereby the monthly payment may not cover all accrued interest. The interest shortfall is then “deferred” by adding it to the outstanding loan balance. The result is an affordable monthly payment, allowing the borrower to use more of their monthly income for other purposes.
*Program only available to qualified borrowers. Rates and program subject to change without notice. Underwriting terms and conditions apply. ARM=adjustable rate mortgage. Doc. #r5404Rev.0904 Flagstar Bank is a Member FDIC
FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
Your Lender For Life Assistant Branch Manager-- Flagstar Bank 800.713.7417 Toll Free www.YourLender4Life.net
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Antonio Stokes
October 2004
For More Information, Call Today:
For Your Health Crystal Martin, M.D.
What do you know about diabetes?
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iabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder that has afflicted millions of African Americans worldwide. For African Americans over the age of 50, 19% of men and 28% of women have diabetes (see chart below). Over 700,000 African American have diabetes and are not aware of it. Blacks with diabetes are also more likely to suffer complications and disability associated with diabetes than whites with diabetes.
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Diabetes mellitus is associated with the deficiency of insulin (Type 1) or insulin resistance (Type II). Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas to help regulate the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Diabetic patients can develop very high blood sugar levels. Early symptoms may include increased thirst, increased urination, unexplained weight loss, dehydration, blurry vision, or recurrent infections. Type I diabetes mellitus usually presents itself early in life. These patients require insulin injections to control their blood sugars. They are prone to the development of a life threatening disorder called ketoacidosis — if the blood sugars are not effectively controlled by insulin therapy. The long-term complications from inadequate therapy include cardiovascular disease, stroke, kidney disease, and vascular disease. Type II diabetes mellitus (DM) is usually associated with obese patients and typically occurs in older patients. These patients can have resistance to insulin or impaired insulin secretion. The cause of Type II DM is a combination of genetic susceptibility, acquired and environmental factors. Evidence suggests that obesity, physical inactivity, and high fat diets are contributing factors to this increasing epidemic especially in our youth. Initially, Type II DM patients will require oral medications to
increase sensitivity to insulin or increase insulin secretion. Some patients will eventually require additional insulin injections for blood sugar control. The newest diagnostic criteria for diabetes mellitus is defined by a fasting blood sugar level greater than 125mg/dL. Once diagnosed, patients with diabetes should be trained to monitor their blood sugars closely. Annual eye exams and urine tests screen for protein are imperative for early detection and intervention for eye and kidney disease associated with diabetes. Diabetes is a serious disease and if not adequately treated can result in serious complications. With aggressive blood sugar control, studies have demonstrated significant reductions in the risks of these complications especially in relation to heart, kidney, and vascular disease, Diabetes mellitus is a manageable disease if discovered early and treated aggressively. If you have a family history of diabetes, are overweight or experience any of the symptoms described above, please contact your primary care physician for diabetic testing. Crystal Martin, M.D., is board certified in internal medicine and nephrology. Dr. Martin is in private practice at Hypertension Nephrology Group, located in Livonia Michigan. Feel free to contact her at Cmartin@Fuzion-Mag.com.
Community Chronicles Edward Foxworth, III
Stretching Life …
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and local organizations including Gilda’s Club, Sister’s Network, Karmanos Cancer Institute all revved up their campaigns to raise awareness about this disease. As we get older, oops, mature, there are several diseases that are silent. Killers such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension and cancer, all fail to give us signs that they are coming. This is especially important to the health of men, who die an average of 7 years before women. Additionally, they are twice as likely to die of skin cancer, 3 times more likely to be alcoholics and they suffer heart attacks 10 years earlier than women!
For each of us, it is about choice! We must decide to live a healthier lifestyle — a lifestyle that includes spirituality, stress management, regular exercise, a commitment to expending more energy than we take in, and making wise food choices. In the end, not only will you live a healthier and more fulfilling life but you’ll be around longer to make significant contributions to the community. Edward Foxworth, III is the director of community affairs for the two Viacom Stations Group-owned television stations in Metro Detroit. Foxworth hosts the weekly public affairs show titled “Street Beat,” which airs on Saturday mornings on CBS and UPN Detroit. He can be contacted at Efoxworth@Fuzion-Mag.com.
October 2004
I have long advocated for community-based programs and services that address topics in education, youth programs, homelessness, religion and so on. It is my hope that this column will keep you informed on the latest and greatest efforts that sometimes go unnoticed, but are having a significant impact on the way we live.
The African American Initiative for Male Health Improvement Network (AIMHI) Chronic Disease Project represents the implementation of the vision of Henry Ford Health System to close the gap in health-related outcomes for African Americans living with chronic disease. AIMHI is focused on reaching out to the African American community across Metropolitan Detroit to screen for chronic disease conditions. Program services will be provided at community-based sites. Services include diabetes screening, hypertension screening, stroke risk assessment and education, and eye disease screening.
FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
Adults who practice preventive maintenance are rare, but it doesn’t have to be that way, particularly with evidence of how nondiscriminatory diseases can be. From our closest family members to celebrities like Halle Berry (diabetes), Luther Vandross (stroke), Barry White (had high blood pressure, kidney failure and mild stroke), Sarah Vaughan (cancer), these diseases can be crippling if left untreated. Annual checkups, screenings and self-examinations can mean life or death. If there is a family history of any of these under-appreciated diseases, then prevention is king!
For men, the biggest challenge is just getting them to the doctor’s office. Well help, in the form of AIMHI, is on the way!
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s we go about our daily lives, racing from appointment to appointment, addressing family issues, and so on, we rarely take “me” time. Time that involves rest, long rides alone with your favorite CDs, some resemblance of physical activity, eating healthier meals and, yes, scheduling an appointment to the see the doctor and/or dentist. Physical and mental wellness is an extremely important aspect of our lives as we move about, yet so few of us pay it enough attention.
It Takes a Village Kimberly Allen Bradfield
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I remember back in the day, no matter where we were, we just did not get too far out of line because there was always someone watching, who would be sure to tell your mother and sometimes might come outside with a switch and get after you themselves. See you “youngins” today and the things you do were unheard of in my day.” These are the common words of my grandfather, the late Willie F. Lloyd, Sr. The old cliché, “It takes a village to raise a child,” can be translated into today’s lingo — “It takes a whole community to get involved with raising our youth.” We hear it on the radio … we see it on the news, oh so often … and it’s the topic of every other talk show. We should all be clear on this message, but … the reality is, we still are not doing enough. Raising our youth is a never-ending battle that requires all of us to ban together to fight. Whether the realization is clear or not, in the blink of an eye, the street can pierce the protective layer we’ve built since the birth of that child and sway that youth in the wrong direction, which will make that same youth you once knew as the nice kid down the street; become the kid who robs or even kills an innocent person.
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Then we are all surprised as we try to figure out, “What went wrong?!?!” As a community, why do we let it get to this point before we even put forth the effort to help guide our youth in a better direction. A positive direction. A direction that can lead to our youths’ becoming the next mayor; or a politician who represents our community; or the next doctor who provides affordable, quality health care to senior citizens; or even a businessman or woman who gives back to the community in some other positive way. What I am saying and what we are seeing every day is that our youths have gotten out of control. Beyond the point of self-resurrection. Our youth are starving for our guidance, our recognition and,
most importantly, our love. They need more of us to care enough to take an active role in not just pointing them in the right direction, but leading by example. So the next time you turn on the radio or television and hear about another young woman or man, who has committed a crime, THINK before you say shame on him or her! It’s shame on us, too! Where did we go wrong? We have to give back to the youth in our community. Those of us who have been giving — let’s give a little more. Those of us who have been trying to get involved — let’s try harder and do it. Those of us who still have not gotten a clue — let this be your epiphany. Because it does take a village (community) to raise our children.
Kimberly Allen Bradfield holds a master’s degree in industrial relations and a bachelor’s degree in communications from Wayne State University. She welcomes her new project as a columnist for Fuzion Magazine’s “It Takes a Village.” Kimberly can be contacted at Kbradfield@Fuzion-Mag.com.
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JAM Sessions Jamillah A. Muhammad
R. Kelly — “Happy People/U Saved Me,” Jive Records In his eighth release, “Happy People/U Saved Me,” the double-CD set on Jive Records, Robert Kelly, known to the world as R. Kelly, has grown musically with each release. At one time we expected lyrics describing women as jeeps and his sexual preferences. We now get to witness the R. Kelly that understands life and love from a personal perspective. “Happy People” is a steppers delight. Each song will move you to the dance floor and is guaranteed to make you feel good inside. There is definitely a Marvin Gaye influence in “If I Could Make the World Dance” and the real steppers can find their groove with the love ballad “Greatest Show on Earth.” The second CD, “U Saved Me,” speaks from the somewhat mysteriously spiritual side of R. Kelly. Other than the obvious hit “U Saved Me,” that is currently burning up the charts, and “Prayer Changes,” the rest of this supposedly gospel CD is anything less than. Even with the collaboration of gospel sensation Kim Burrell and R&B singer Kelly Price, many of the songs hardly qualify as true gospel music. More like … a stretch to inspire.
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October 2004
J Moss — “The J Moss Project,” Gospo Centric Records When you think of gospel music, you can’t help but think of the family of this young, gifted, soon to be “Icon” in the music business. J Moss, Gospo Centric Record’s newest addition, and a part of the hit-making Detroit-based production team Pajama, releases his debut solo project, and it includes a track for gospel music lovers of all ages. From the praise and worship track “We Must Praise,” to the up-tempo urban flavored “You Brought Me,” J Moss writes, produces and performs gospel tracks that are sure to be hits. It’s difficult to single out any particular track because this CD will make you fall in love with
Excellent — If this isn’t in your collection, you’ll miss out! Good — You won’t be dissapointed if you purchase it All right — Could have been better, but you might want to own a track or two on it Purchase at your own risk! No rating
each song individually. His voice is distinctively rare, emotional and unlike any other. Coupled with the remarkable production elements, it represents the true Pajama sound. Including tracks that would be just as successful as any song heard on urban radio today, “The J Moss Project” is incomparable to any gospel release I’ve heard in recent years. Make sure you put your ears to this! Anita Baker — “My Everything,” Blue Note ½ Records Anita is back and better than ever! With her first release in 10 years Anita Baker has not let go of what made her the hit maker we know her to be. Reuniting with producer Barry Eastmond, “My Everything” is filled with classic ballads any true Anita Baker fan would enjoy and that would make any non-believer a convert. “Like You Used to Do,” featuring superstar Babyface, is an incredible ballad sure to put you in the mood. “Men in My Life” is the most adoring tribute to a family any mother and wife could express. Other tracks capture the true essence of R&B and appeals to Jazz lovers of every genre. Some of the biggest names in music are contributing to this project in the likes of George Duke, Nathan East, Paul Jackson Jr. and Gerald Albright, to name a few. This CD is a must have! Jamillah “Jam” Muhammad is program director at WMXD/ MIX 92.3 Radio/Clear Channel Detroit
Our Obligations Daniel A. Baxter
development. I must constantly portray a spirit of excellence in case some wayward youth is fed up with the intangible television role models that he or she has attempted to emulate, and is willing to give me a try. And greater yet, I must be eager to speak positive thoughts and give quality time to not only my girls but also to their peer group.
When I reflect on the world when I was a youngster (not that long ago) it certainly was a lot less confusing. Rarely did I hear or read about kids killing kids. Homosexuality, though in existence, was not a constant “in your face” issue. And in a post-9/11 world, constantly threatened with the threat of terrorism and escalating war, a game of baseball is seldom relived because the playgrounds in Detroit are desolate.
I know that, through Christ, who gives me strength, I will succeed in meeting my obligation as a father to my four girls. As a result, the legacy that I leave will be secured for many generations because Detroit’s future has just become brighter.
My role is not merely to leave a modicum of wealth but, more importantly, I must leave a legacy that they can take pleasure in. In doing so, I must prepare them for the future and equip their generation as well. What sense would it make for me to leave each of my girls one million dollars and ten acres of land if they could not enjoy it because the world was in disarray? More specifically, I must utilize my God-given gifts and talents to make Detroit and the world a better place. I must be willing to give back to all of the communities that contributed to my growth and
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October 2004
The scripture that speaks to my concerns is Proverbs 13:22 — “A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children.” When I first read this passage I concluded that my obligation to my offspring was simply to leave them some money and property. But after taking a second look at it, I realized it speaks deeper — to my obligation as a father to my girls.
Daniel Baxter is a community activist who strives to educate the youth in our community. He is works for the City of Detroit Department of Elections. To reach Daniel please email him at Dbaxter@Fuzion-Mag.com.
FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
As I search through this life maze for the answer that will best show me how I can help my girls develop, become positive contributors to society and make life better in Detroit, I have found no greater source than the Holy Bible.
What about you? What is your obligation? What can you do to make Detroit a better place?
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am a 39-year-old African American native Detroiter, married and the proud father of four darling daughters. Often I find myself thinking about my girls’ future and what the world will have to offer them when they are ready to leave the nest. At their ages — 17, 11, 8, and 3 — I am certain that they do not think a great deal about things such as this.
TECHnology Herman Houston, MCSE
Viruses and Spyware
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Our common villains and best practices
n this day and age of online computing and e-commerce, there has been an uprising of programs to “challenge” today’s computer users. I will take you through the definitions of the villains, best practices and economic solutions to some of the more common instances of viruses and spyware.
Some symptoms of virus infections are:
Viruses are programs or a piece of code written by a programmer (cracker) that “infects” one or more other programs by embedding a copy of itself in them. When these programs are executed the embedded virus is executed too, thus propagating the “infection.” This normally is invisible to the user. Usually viruses will infect a computer silently and attach themselves to emails to propagate. The threat level varies from minor, which may just display odd characters or messages on the infected computer’s monitor, to hazardous in which the virus may distribute itself through the address books of the “hosting” computer and destroy the data on all hard drives of infected computers. The reason that these viruses are considered hazardous is that in every computer that they infect, they go through that computer’s local address book and redistribute to those addresses, and so on …
Some symptoms of spyware infections are:
Spyware is any software that covertly gathers information about a user while the user navigates the Internet and transmits the information to an individual or company that uses it for marketing or other purposes. What this means is while you are downloading the latest music, videos, artwork or files, there could be someone accessing all of the information that you have ever input into your computer. Remember those flowers you ordered last year via internet? All of that information is stored locally until you delete it!
You begin to get a lot of “undeliverable mail” messages in your mailbox and you know you haven’t sent out 1,000 emails You turn on your computer and you see strange messages on your monitor
You log on to the internet and you get advertisements to the point that you can’t navigate anywhere You have a cable/DSL modem and your computer is running extremely slowly The efforts of the virus and spyware programmers (crackers) lately have been thwarted by the leading anti-virus solution providers. There are a lot of free utilities available on the internet but would you fly on a plane piloted by a guy little experience? Best practices and economic solutions: Update your virus definitions at least twice a month; most anti-virus providers have this option available at least twice a month. The anti-virus companies recommended by this columnist are: Symantec Anti-Virus, www.symantec.com — this provider has updates once a week and tools to remove viruses and spyware for free. MacAfee Virus Scan, http://us.mcafee.com, has allin-one bundles which are a one stop solution. The price you’ll pay is worth the peace of mind you’ll get while you cruise the ’net. If you are already infected, consult a certified computer hardware technician or contact me at Hhouston@fuzion-mag.com. Herman Houston is the network engineer at Motor City Casino. He is a Microsoft Certified Network Engineer. Feel free to contact him at Hhouston@Fuzion-Mag.com with any questions about computer networking.
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Healthy Hair JaNiece Gray Hill
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e’ve all heard the conversation: “Girl, my stomach and thighs are getting too big, but I don’t want to work out. I don’t want to mess up my hair!” Yes, it’s true; an intense, regular work-out regiment can wreak havoc on African-American women’s hair. However, when exercises can prevent such illness as heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer — I say get to sweating. Women don’t realize that they can maintain their hairstyle and still work on flattening that tummy. The solution depends on the hair texture, the cut and if the person has a relaxed or non-relaxed coif.
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For someone with a naturally curly hair pattern, I suggest they use their curl pattern to their advantage and wear it naturally curly. Using mousse after exercising will lock in the curl, and prevent the hair from frizzing. A sister who sports a short, relaxed cut, should wrap the sides and the back of the hair with a silky (not cotton) scarf while working out. Once the hair dries, from perspiring, the hair should retain its natural shape. For the lady with medium to long hair wrapping the full head with a snug scarf before a work out will help maintain straighter styles. One piece of advice: If you perspire heavily, try sitting under a hooded dryer after your workout. One of the biggest mistakes is to use the curling iron on a daily basis. This causes extreme dryness to the hair shaft, which results in breakage or split ends- which ultimately means more clipping and shorter hair. An alternative to using the curling iron is to use a molding mud or paste to achieve the straight or spiked look.
Additionally, there are several hair styles that are conducive to an active lifestyle and sexy hairstyle: Twist, straw, and spiral curl sets give the hair a tighter curl. When working out, a style like as this will last longer than a straight hair style. Braided hair is another great look. Braids allow one to work out, perspire and keep going without the hair changing shape, shifting, frizzing or going flat. However, be sure that the edges of the hair are not pulled too tightly, which can cause breakage and eventually baldness. One final option is sporting a weave. Unlike, natural hair, weaved hair, synthetic or human hair is chemically treated and can be curled frequently. In addition to handling heat well, weaved hair can hold curls longer than natural hair and the upkeep after exercising in minimum. Maintaining a stylish look may be difficult while exercising, however, the benefits outweigh the other option — sitting around with a fly hairstyle, a flabby tummy, jelly thighs and high blood pressure. After all, what’s the point of having healthy hair if it doesn’t belong to a healthy body?
JaNiece Gray Hill is a licensed hair stylist and owner of Shades of Gray Salon in Ferndale, Michigan. She can be reached for private consultations at (248) 541-4611.
Debbie Darakdjian Professional Make-up Artist ()- Years Experience www.makeupbydebbie.com
October 2004
Fanchon Stinger, WKBD Channel American Idol’s Diana DeGarmo Gary Cowger, General Motors President David Hall, Rock Financial Rhonda Walker, WDIV Channel Peter Jennings, ABC News Johnnie Cockran, Attorney Glenda Lewis and Robbie Timmons, WXYZ Channel
FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
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Specializes in: Weddings • Proms Print Photography Television Video • Film Male and Female
The sisterhood of media by Lolita Standifer and Coire D. Nichols Houston
Photographs by Jon Stewart
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n the evolving world of broadcast journalism, the industry has undergone many facelifts and re-births. Women in the industry, in particular, have not only garnered recognition, but have also gained respect among their male counterparts, especially white males, as reputable and knowledgeable journalists who’ve braved the trenches. Fuzion Magazine — Detroit features six African American female journalists who are at the top of their profession. They discuss the sisterhood in media and what it takes to remain at the head of the class!
Diana Lewis . . . . . . . 17 Carolyn Clifford . . . 17 Fanchon Stinger. . . . 18 Rhonda Walker . . . . 18 Robbin Simmons. . . 26 Glenda Lewis . . . . . . 26
of anyone who would listen, even on the knee of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who said, “This young lady has something to say, she’s going to be someone.” In the early 60s Lewis worked as a psychiatric social worker in the Philadelphia area. Encouraged by her stepfather, the late Moses Mann, she considered an assistant producer position at the television program, “Black Book.” Mann said, “I just see you doing that, let’s just drive into Philadelphia [for the audition]”. “So, Mom, Pop and I drove into Philadelphia and I auditioned with Joe Blocker. We discussed the show and my ideas of what I could contribute to the black community.” Needless to say, she got the job and it was at WPBI that she received her big break. The show was scheduled to interview Maya Angelo for a tribute in honor of Dr. King. To Lewis’ surprise, Maya Angelo took ill and could not attend. Lewis was forced to go on air live as a replacement for the scheduled interview.
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to focus on television broadcasting. Willing to work her way to the top, Carolyn made the necessary sacrifices by first completing several unpaid internships, and setting her sights on a smaller television market where she could learn the business from the ground up. Fresh out of college, she learned her craft by working long hours, formed a bond with many peers and worked in many positions. She made sure she was prepared before she entered a top-ten powerhouse market like Detroit. “I got my first reporting job in Orlando, Florida, which was the 25th market, as a part-time reporter. I stayed there for about a year returning to Lansing as a reporter and anchor. I got the position that had been held by my girlfriend from college.” Carolyn recalls that there were very few positions available for African Americans — male or female. When she returned to Lansing, she was the only black anchor at her station. Carolyn attributes the increase in the number of black faces in the industry to affirmative action.
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October 2004
Carolyn CliffordTaylor
FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
It’s not about glamour, it’s not about money, it’s very competitive, and it’s not easy …” These are the words of wisdom and advice Detroit’s own Carolyn Clifford-Taylor gives to high school students curious about entering the field of television journalism. While now poised, sophisticated and grounded, this 16-year media veteran was — like many of us in our early years — uncertain of her life’s destiny while in college. The native Detroiter graduated from Michigan State University. Carolyn started out majoring in pre-dentistry. “I had no business being in pre-dentistry because I’m not really good in math or science — those just aren’t my strongest subjects.” She later decided to change her major to journalism where “I felt right at home.” As they say, home is where the heart is, and Carolyn’s heart was in performing arts at Detroit’s Benedictine High School. This was her prelude to journalism. In high school Carolyn was very active, taking part in cheerleading, forensics, debate, dance and theater. “I learned in high school that I liked being in front of the public or being in front of an audience. I was also a student council representative and that was a good beginning to learning about communication and life first hand.” While at Michigan State, she took her first job at a local radio station, and was later encouraged
Diana Lewis
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D
iana Lewis certainly is not in Coatesville, Pennsylvania anymore. Coatesville is a small town, 20 miles outside of Philadelphia, where our Detroit icon was nurtured and molded into the beautiful person that touches our hearts today. Lewis graciously shared her life with us, from her humble beginnings, to her appearances in the Rocky movies, to her role models and her family. Blessed as a child, she has an aura and the demeanor of an angel. “I am on a mission; I know God has anointed me, because when I was born, March 17, 1943, there was no room in the inn, [the hospital]. My mother believes this and I would never tell her any differently [laughing]. My mother created a manger, not like what you might think the baby [Jesus was in] but her own private way of saying that I was something so special and holy to her. And from that moment on, I think it was that kind of special anointing that my mother had through Jesus Christ [that] she gave to me!” As a child, Lewis always felt compelled to speak publicly. She was often referred to as “the communicator” among her family and friends. Raised in the church, and very prolific with biblical scriptures, Lewis would recite her verses in front
Fanchon Stinger
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FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
October 2004
Rhonda Walker
F
anchon Stinger has to be the little sister to die for. Die meaning good! Her bubbly personality that explodes on your television screen every morning on Fox 2 News Morning is the same in person. This past spring Stinger became co-anchor with Alan Lee. “Fanchon rhymes with mansion, and that’s my real name!” Stinger says jokingly, as she shares with us her childhood, spiritual beliefs, and her hopes and aspirations for the future. “I absolutely love what I do, because I feel as though God has blessed me to be able to work in the community where I grew up. There are not a lot of people [who] can say that they look forward to going to work everyday.” Stinger is one of three of our featured sisters of media who was born in raised in Detroit. She is a University of Michigan honors graduate with a dual major in English and communications, with an emphasis in political science. Stinger joined Fox 2 in 1997 as a general assignment reporter and later graduated to investigative reporter as part of the “Fox 2 Problem Solver” unit. “The funniest thing is that most
people from here [Detroit] that know me know that’s not Fanchon. When they see me going after the former governor [Engler] or whomever, they say oh-my-goodness, and when I think about [the experience], it was good because it gave me the ability to grow and come out of my shell.” You’d never know that Fanchon has always been naturally shy. She also created the “Fox 2 Honor Roll,” a weekly feature that showcases young people who are doing positive and extraordinary things in Metro Detroit. “I believe in reinforcing with our young people that God has given them unique talents and abilities. Now they must use those gifts to become the dynamic person they were created to be. That’s my message. Develop belief and faith in yourself.” Stinger knew at the age of 15 she wanted to be a journalist. As a career assignment in high school she met one of her mentors, retired WDIV anchor Mort Crim who told her how to start developing her journalism skills in high school and college. “Most importantly, I knew at an early age that I wanted to be in a position where I could always positively influence the lives of others, especially the future generation.” An 11-year veteran, Stinger received her first big break at WNEM in Saginaw
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difficult it is to get into the industry. Everyone wants to be a news anchor, but very few people get the job. I was so impressionable at that time, so I thought, ‘Oh God, I need to rethink this and get a back-up plan!’” This was the beginning of what she refers to as “my journey.” In her junior year at State, Walker received an internship that would lead, after graduation, to a full-time position with General Mills Foods. Walker went back to school for her senior year and changed her major from business administration back to communications and graduated. “Who cared what my degree was in? I had a full time job now!” Walker stayed with General Mills for 11 months. She later took a position in what is known as the “crème-de-la- crème of sales” as a pharmaceutical sales representative. “What was interesting about pharmaceutical sales was that you worked on your own schedule, you’re supposed to work 9 to 5 but no one ever does [laughing]. I did very well. I had great numbers and relationships with my doctors.” In spite of having an excellent job, a company car and living quite comfortably, Walker still had a yearning to get into the news industry. From buying books about the media to taking notes and
ho’d have ever thought that Detroit’s “darling diva” was once very shy, teased and even considered a tomboy. “I used to always want to play with my older [female] cousins and they’d tell me to go away, so I had to play with my brother.” In overcoming her shyness, Walker spent her time in front of people pretending and imitating her favorite television personalities — Amyer Makeupson, now retired from what was then WKBD, and Carmen Harlan, also from Channel 4. “It really took me a while to feel comfortable with myself,” says Walker. Another Detroit native, Walker was raised in Lansing, graduating from Michigan State University. Originally, Walker majored in communications to fulfi ll her dream of becoming an anchor woman. However, a life-altering experience that took place her first year of college caused her to change her major. During a visit to Howard University in Washington, D.C. for a career fair, Walker met people in the television news, print and radio industries. Walker says, “They were all really discouraging, saying how
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actually studying newscasts, this sister was going to be on television some way, some how! This determination lead her to a talent agency where she accepted the position of traveling spokesmodel for the Auto Show circuits. “I started praying every night, asking God to show me what [it is] that you have destined for me to do in life. I recited the same prayer over and over again,” says Walker. During a visit to Boston, she received a phone call from the talent agency asking her to audition/interview at WJBK, Fox 2 as a traffic reporter. “Right then, I put everything together that was happening in my life, in particular all of the sales jobs that required me to drive all over the city. I knew all the streets, and highways, the traffic trends and all the detours. I thought, Wow, this job is mine!” Walker got the job as the morning traffic reporter, which was later combined with the weather. “I only worked four hours a day, and then after the show was over it was like a paid internship. I thought, I can write stories, practice reading off the teleprompter, go out on news stories with reporters, so I took advantage of all of it, and I learned everything I could from anyone willing to support me.” She owes a lot of her training to friends Lucy Nolan, former co-anchor of the “Fox 2 Morning Show,” Fanchon Stinger, and Charles Pugh, all of whom embraced her throughout her time at the station. In July 2003 Rhonda Walker finally reached her goal by becoming the co-host for “Local 4 News Today.” “Everything I had ever dreamed of had come true. When I was a little girl, I saw Carmen Harlan all the time because she used to baby sit for my cousins. I thought she was so beautiful, and glamorous, and I wanted to be her. And now I’m here. I am sitting in her [Carmen’s] chair! I had to pinch myself, and say is this real?” Outside of working at Local 4, in February 2003, Walker established the Rhonda Walker Foundation. Its goal is to provide mentorship, personal enrichment and career development for teenage girls in Detroit. “Being in the media, you
October 2004
dream. By the time you’re ready it will be easier because we need all women working together breaking into what is considered man’s exclusive domain opening the doors and bringing what we have to the table.” This was Lewis’ introduction to the “sisterhood of media”! When asked if there really is a sisterhood of media, she responded, “Yes, there truly is. It’s not a just a sisterhood because we’re African American, it’s sisterhood because we’re in this industry. There were only five or six African American women on the air when I first came into this market in 1977, and now it’s about all women. Yes, I am African American so I particularly reach out and embrace them [new anchors and reporters] because they need nurturing. I know that we have to rid ourselves [of] any attitudes [that] just because we’re black, we can’t be friends or we can’t be seen with one another … You do have to be a decent human being, make a difference and open your arms and say come on we can do this together!” Speaking of doing this together, in 2004 on the eve of Mother’s Day she proudly co-anchored the 11:00 p.m. news with her daughter, Glenda. This made her and Glenda the first mother-daughter TV news team, as documented in the Museum of Television and Radio. Diana Lewis has been awarded several awards in her 45-year career. In 2002, she received two Emmys — the Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award, which was presented by her friend Regis Philbin, and Best News Anchor. To those of you who have never watched Diana Lewis on Channel 7’s “Action News,” you are missing a jewel, a true delight. Please be sure to tune onto “Action News” at 6:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. on WXYZ Channel 7.
FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
After reviewing the program, Mel Campman asked her to do an audition tape for a weather girl at the station. “I auditioned; because I was ready to give it a try … never let them see you sweat [laughing]. My husband was in the background shaking his head no. I made light of the situation pointing everywhere, every place, but the right one, but they loved it upstairs.” The station powers-that-be determined that the weather might not be Lewis’ forte, so she became the mid-day anchor and the rest is history. Lewis moved to Los Angles to be with her husband, Glenn Lewis, an awardwinning editor she endearingly refers to as “My Rocky, my rock of strength.” In L.A., Lewis was a co-anchor at WKBC with her dear friend, Regis Philbin. There she received a phone call from young, up and coming actor and new screenplay writer, Sylvester Stallone. “I said well hello, how are you sir”. And he said, “Well first of all, don’t call me sir,” and asked if I had an agent? I asked him to hold on [covering the phone]; I looked at Regis and said, “Do I have an agent?” Regis nodded yes. I got back on the phone and said, “Yes, well yes, I do have and agent!” Stallone had followed her reports and liked her genuineness and wanted her to audition as a reporter for what was then a low budget fi lm — Rocky. The greatest love affair Lewis has outside of her relationship with husband, Glenn, is the relationship that she shares with her daughters, Donna Lewis Crawford, 38, and Glenda Lewis, 29. “[About] Glenda, we never dreamed she was going to go into television news. My daughter Donna was the social butterfly, singing, acting and performing in New York on a national soap [opera]. They are the best things that could have ever happened to me!” Diana Lewis attended Central State University in Ohio. During a semester break, she had the opportunity to spend the day at ABC and meet her now mentor and very close friend, Barbara Walters. As Lewis sat in awe perusing Walters’ small office at ABC, she said, “Wow, this is a dream.” Walters replied, “That’s nice that you think this is a dream, but Diana, I want you to know that you can have this
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Diana Lewis — continued from page 17
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October 2004
Carolyn Clifford-Taylor — continued from page 17
She credits women like Diana Lewis and Doris Biscoe, who she grew up watching on Channel 7, with paving the way for those who followed in their footsteps. “We can never forget or discount [that] Oprah is the most powerful and the richest woman on television and she just happens to be African American.” “In the past, news directors were forced to hire more black faces to make newsrooms more diversified. Today however, we’ve proven our worth and newsrooms across the country are becoming more diversified, both in front and behind the camera. But make no mistake we still have a long way to go, especially when it comes to higher-up positions of news directors, general managers, and owners of stations!” Carolyn later recalls her experience at WLFL, the Fox affi liate in Raleigh, North Carolina during the OJ Simpson trial “I moved to Raleigh, and I was the only black anchor and reporter at this station. When the verdict was announced, I had to speak with my news director and explain to him that I [was] the only black person out there and I [was] feeling some pressure. I remember calling someone from the newsroom and saying, ‘Can you believe that he got off?’ Someone overheard my conversation and got mad when they thought that I was celebrating.” Her company moved her to Pittsburgh to launch the 10 o’clock news at the Fox affi liate WPGH. She again was the only African American anchor and reporter in the newsroom. However, Detroit’s Channel 7 now has seven African American on-air personalities as well as a new female African American managing editor and a female African American news director. It was Carolyn’s mother — her inspiration — who led her back home to Detroit. “My mother is my mentor.” What many don’t know about this strong, ambitious and level-headed woman is that she is one of ten siblings.” “No one else stands above my mother. She raised ten kids in the city of Detroit, and left an abusive husband behind to keep her family together, and opened a business by herself, without a big college education! How many black women in the
Rhonda Walker — continued from page 19
60s, with ten kids, could leave a man and start a business [Detroit’s Gold Star Pest Inspecting on Livernois] that’s still going strong today? She is a trailblazer, that’s my mother! I took the position at Channel 7 as a weekend anchor just so I could be closer to my mother. I could have gone anywhere — perhaps a Chicago or New York — my family is here, and I wanted to be closer to my mother, she is my rock!” In her spare time, besides being a wife and mother to three active children, Carolyn gives back to Detroit by speaking to students at public schools in the Metro Detroit area. “If you’re a teacher or a principal and you ask me to speak with kids in Detroit, I’m there. A lot of kids don’t realize that I’m from Detroit, and I tell them my story … It doesn’t matter what your family background is or where you’ve come from, if you’re a kid with a dream and a will to believe you can still make it. When you look at me you’re looking at yourself and I mean that from the bottom of my heart! That is my way of giving back [to the community],” Carolyn stated with sincerity in her eyes. On the topic of the sisterhood of media, Carolyn shared that since joining Channel 7 and working in the morning she is given very little opportunity to spend time with her colleagues. “At first I would see Diana in passing and we’d sometimes chat for a minute. Because of our schedules, we have very little time to spend together. Many of us are married with children, so once I leave the station, I become mommy, actively involving myself with my children’s activities.” Carolyn Clifford-Taylor also anchors the noon news and is the station’s fulltime health reporter. Her nightly reports on “Action News at Five” educate viewers on the latest medical developments. In 2003, Carolyn was awarded the Emmy award for Best News Anchor. Check out Carolyn Clifford-Taylor at her finest, every weekday from 5:00 to 7:00 a.m. on “Action News This Morning,” with co-anchor Erik Smith, and from noon to 1 p.m. on “Action News at Noon,” with Robbie Timmons.
are constantly approached by a variety of community organizations that ask you to speak. I wanted to focus on one area. I was really drawn to organizations that involved children, because I have a passion for kids. I decided to focus on teen girls. I remember how I was when I was in eighth, ninth and tenth grades. You could make one bad move and end up in the wrong crowd.” The program is called “Girls to Women.” The foundation … tracks the development and participation of each young lady. It will eventually place them in leadership roles within the organization. For additional information about the “Girls to Women” program please call (800) 652-2989. Regarding the sisterhood of media, Rhonda agreed, “There is most definitely a sisterhood, I found this with Fanchon [Stinger] at Fox, it was only the two of us [African Americans]. I got a phone call when I first started, from Amyer Makeupson, who asked me out to lunch. I grew-up watching her on Channel 50 and I thought WOW, I wonder what she wants”. It turned out that this was Makeupson’s, way of welcoming her into the industry as a peer. “I remember the first year I meet Diana Lewis, she was so warm and welcoming, and I could just tell in her eyes that it was okay to give her a hug, so I just embraced her. I feel so proud when I wake-up every morning and think about myself, Fanchon and Carolyn [Clifford] are on each station’s morning show’s, knowing that we’re all African American women and all from Detroit!” Detroit is where she plans to remain. Sorry fellas, Walker is spoken for and has been for eight years with husband Derrick. This is her journey, her fairy tale that has become her reality. You can watch Walker every weekday morning from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. on “Local 4 News Today” with co-host Guy Gordon.
The Fashion Beat Jennifer James
Let’s just keep it simple. Look over your wardrobe after you’ve checked out a great runway show on cable. If suicide comes to mind, it only means that it’s time to implement some of the big-gun tactics used to put together these very high-profile shows. Try this; pick the eight hottest pieces in your collection. If you can’t find eight then six will do. If you don’t have six, either go shopping or call a hotline and see if they talk you out of it. Find at least three combinations you have never worn (in public, that is). Throw them together and see what we come up with. Ok, Miss Classic Suit with the perfectly
Jennifer James is the head cosmetologist and fashion consultant for Julian Scott Department Store, the nation’s first African American department store. Please feel free to visit Jennifer at the store located at 151 West Fort Street in Downtown Detroit or contact her at Jjames@Fuzion-Mag.com. Fanchon Stinger — continued from page 18
just after college. She spent 4½ years there, starting as an intern and working her way up to morning show host. Fanchon says she owes much of her success in Detroit to her first boss, Neil Goldstein, who believed in her when others told her she was too young to work in a market this size. “Not only did he believe in me, he challenged me every day to be the best I could be. It wasn’t always easy but to him I am forever grateful.” She has had the opportunity to travel as part of her assignments. The story that had the most impact on her, as it did on the rest of the country, was in New York shortly after September 11, 2001. “Being in Ground Zero was an experience that no one could ever take away from me! Seeing people coming together, sleeping together, praying in the streets together was unreal. Seeing that it was not a pile of rubble, it was a tower of rubble; they [the media] kept on referring to the site as a pile. When we got there it was 12 stories high, and understanding the hatred in this world and what it’s doing to us worldwide was devastating”. Stinger reported from Ground Zero for five days, and is often fondly approached by viewers who saw her compassionate reports which brought her to tears on several occasions. “I owe Fox 2 for giving me that opportunity, as well as, others for having that much faith in me, and I want to live up to their expectations.” A true testament of her commitment to her career and the community is the friendship that she developed with a homeless person on the streets of Pontiac. She approached him seven years ago while doing a story on the extreme cold and their relationship began an ongoing series of reports. Many of you may recall the homeless gentleman, Ken, who went from drinking a gallon of vodka a day, to working at the Grace Centers for Hope in Pontiac, the same program that helped him. “We placed him in that shelter and he completely turned his life around, wanting to serve Continued on page 22
October 2004
What to do now? Kick it into gear like you never have before. Sound scary, well it is not. Getting out of your box with fashion does not mean a transformation that would render you unrecognizable to your friends. It can be as easy as just modifying your current look or amping it up 40 notches. That all depends on the current level of bravura driving your style choices.
All I’m saying is go out and spend too much on a beautiful, crisp white blouse. Wear it with your best jeans, put it under that classic suit. Hey, wear it to bed if that makes your face smile uncontrollably. It’s called life — L I V E!!
FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
S
o what it has been the autumn season for three weeks now! You weren’t quite ready for summer to be over, but as the cliché goes — all things come to an end. If you actually sat there for a moment and thought about it, many of us could admit feeling a sort of lull. That feeling just goes with this particular segment of the year. It’s that way because of the time between back-toschool and the holiday season.
matching shoes and handbag … Boring. Yeah, your look is together and there a synonym for that — contrived. If your natural inclination is to put a nice brooch on the lapel of that suit, live a little and wear your whole brooch collection at the same time. And for heaven’s sake, could we all get a life and get over the matchy-matchy phenomenon that has swept the nation.
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What to do now
Temple Anointing Rachel Orange
Apply: Love, peace and respect Pour: Spirituality all over, healing your body and soul Let’s get it started
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ealing is what we all want in every aspect of our lives — whether it is in our relationships, work, unruly kids or the excess baggage that hangs off our arms. We want a quick fix. It takes hard work and time to reach our goals. How can we start a weight loss plan without taking the essential steps? There are major questions we must ask ourselves to achieve our goals: • When do I have the time? • What motivates me? • How can I stay on track?
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October 2004
First, you must take stock of your fitness history. Perhaps you’ve never worked out a day in your life, or you haven’t since playing basketball in high school or the doing the hustle vigorously at all the summer jams. Or, at the other end of the spectrum, perhaps you’ve been going to a gym for a few months or even a few years, but aren’t happy with the results you’re getting. Your fitness level when you begin doesn’t matter. The point of setting your fitness goal is to know where you want to be in 21days after you start. Your goal should be realistic and achievable; you don’t want to set yourself up for failure. Make the time. Maybe your daily timetable needs to change, i.e. wake up one hour early for your workout or go for an evening walk while playing your iPod. You don’t need to belong to a fancy gym — or any gym at all — to receive maximum benefit from an exercise routine. You will begin to see changes in your body. All you need is an area within your living space in which to perform the exercises. Perhaps you can borrow, adapt or buy second-hand some basic equipment to expand your routines. When all is said and done, you will experience a spiritual catharsis. Then it becomes clear and you
will ask yourself, “Why didn’t I do this before?” And that’s okay, as long as you stay on the path to redesigning and redefining your physical self, which is ongoing simply because of our nature. Let’s stay strong on our journey to spiritual health, both internally and externally. Rachel Orange is a certified physical fitness instructor and former Weight Watchers corporate consultant/advisor. If you have any questions, contact her at Rorange@Fuzion-Mag. com.
Fanchon Stinger — continued from page 21
God. He would minister to people and conduct Bible study classes. Ken was later diagnosed with cancer, and the outpouring of support from the community was tremendous. He died this summer. His legacy will live on forever, because the center is now going to name their children’s center after him. This is why I love what I do.” Her family has always been a strong influence on her. Stinger is one of two children; her sister is also a reporter and both parents are educators. She owes her successes to her Christian upbringing and the values and morals that she learned as a child. “My parents always encouraged me to do anything that I wanted to do as long as I [did] it for the right reasons, and [did] it to serve other people. The most painful lesson has been that not everyone has your best interest at heart even though they may say and act like they do. It hurts, but it has also strengthened my faith in God and for that I’m thankful.” Stinger is a member of Southfield’s Word of Faith International Christian Center. When asked is there a sisterhood of media Stinger responds, “Absolutely! We truly learn from each other, respect one another; we’ve all gone through our struggles to get where we are. Most importantly we all have a vested interest in Detroit because most of us are from here.” Although there are some station rivalries, she believes that, “it’s all done in good faith! After all, competition is good for the soul and it’s friendly competition!” Stinger and her husband recently ventured into the world of entrepreneurship (with four other partners) in two restaurants and a lounge in Royal Oak. Bastone Continued on page 31
A Department Store …
In Downtown
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Mon–Sat, 10am–7pm | Sun 12n–5pm
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140 Cadillac Square 313.965.5200 www.julianscottstore.com
October 2004
DETROIT?
The ladies who protect our vote by Joe Hudson for Fuzion Magazine — Detroit
Eight years ago Gloria C. Williams received a phone call from Detroit City Clerk Jackie L. Currie related to a simple question about new software under consideration for the computer systems at the Department of Elections. Little did Gloria know that her answer would land her in the seat of power central to Detroit politics. Managing the day to day operations of the power base of the voice of Detroit, a task that required smarts, client service development skills, information technology experience and a willingness to change the mindset of over 600,000 registered voters. “I had no idea that Ms. Currie would offer me this job when she called,” Williams said. “Coming from the informational technology department of the city of Detroit, I was responsible for managing the city’s system’s regarding payroll, property and income taxes you know tracking dollars, not votes.” Williams thought her task would be easy, not figuring or anticipating the firestorm ahead. Contrary to her belief, residents in the city of Detroit take elections and politics very seriously. That’s not to say she wasn’t up for the challenge. City Clerk Jackie Currie said, “There is a tremendous amount of work and pressure that goes into preparing a city the size of Detroit for national, county and local elections. Gloria has demonstrated strong and decisive leadership over the last eight years. I am proud of her accomplishments and have great confidence in her management skills.” During the last eight years, Williams and staff have implemented new election computer software from the state of Michigan. The Qualified Voter System, also known as the QVF fi le, is technology that tracks voter records. “We have taken very serious steps to prevent what happened in Florida and other states from occurring in Detroit,” Williams said. “Today we can take a name of any Michigan registered voter and find out their voting history. This allows the Department of Elections to track current voter trends and seek out those who are participating in the electoral process, “she added.
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October 2004
Detroit Department of Elections Director Gloria Williams
In the city of Detroit, there are over 600,000 registered voters. This is tracked automatically through the Secretary of State’s office when you renew or apply for a driver license or state ID card (for non drivers). Shortly after you receive your driver’s license or state ID card, your voter’s registration should arrive in the mail. Ironically Williams points out that out of 600,000 registered voters in the city of Detroit less than half vote in general elections and one-third in primary elections. Your vote counts, is the theme you will hear in Detroit’s many churches, community centers and neighborhood block club meetings as the November 2 general election nears. “Let’s think about this for a moment,” Williams said, “we keep our driver license current, we track our credit card spending and watch over our banking business, but we do not honor our right — our duty — as a United States citizen to vote.” She added, “There is something seriously wrong with this picture.” Thus far more than 50,000 applications have been mailed and received from Detroit residents. The vote by mail process is becoming more popular with voters. “We have found that the vote by absentee or early voting can increase our vote total. Seniors have always had this option available, but today other voters who may be away on Election Day because of work, out of town business, away in the military or college or simply on vacation are now using this option. In fact on Tuesday, November 2 election department employees will be once again collecting absentee ballots outside the department at 2978 W. Grand Blvd. until 8 p.m.” The city of Detroit Department of Elections also provides transportation to the precinct polls on Election Day. There are so many reason’s why it’s imperative that you vote. “People can only see and feel what’s happening now, and sometimes their vision does not involve five or ten years into the future,” Williams said when asked about the impact of voting. “One vote can make a difference. That’s a proven fact in the history of this country. Who will be the best person in a local, county, state or national office to represent you is entirely up to you, the voter, and that is what makes our country and my job a fantastic experience.” On election night as the numbers roll in and the ballots are counted, Williams and staff are well prepared to handle the results that will shape the future of our city, state and country for the next four years. “I’m thankful for the opportunity given to me by Jackie L. Currie and very happy she decided to call me eight years ago,” Williams added. “Elections in the city of Detroit now run smoothly because we have assembled under our clerk’s leadership a great team of people who truly care about our responsibilContinued on page 25
The ladies who protect our vote by Joe Hudson for Fuzion Magazine — Detroit
ity and the trust the citizens of Detroit have bestowed on each of us the manage the municipal elections,” she said. Voting polls open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 8:p.m. Under City Clerk Currie the city acquired an optical scan system, whereby as soon as the ballot is feed into the machine the votes are tabulated-the whole ballot is counted right at the precinct and stored into a memory pack. At the end of the day, when the last Detroit resident has voted, the polls closed, the memory packs are brought back to the department and then calculated for the results. If you have any questions about your voter registration or voting in the city of Detroit please call the Department of Elections at 313-871-0960.
FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
Gloria Williams — continued from page 24
October 2004
in unity with each other. Detroit City Clerk We have people going Jackie L. Currie door to door, block by block and into every neighborhood reaching out to voters. Jackie L. Currie has been Detroit city clerk for 11 years. In addition to being chairperson of the Election Commission and supervising the Department of Elections, Ms. Currie also has the responsibility of being the official keeper of the records for the city of Detroit. As clerk she sets the agenda for City Council meetings, publishes council minutes and city notices. Her efficient staff of 31 employees is housed in the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center. Prior to becoming city clerk, she was a long serving and effective Wayne County commissioner. While there she helped create the Juvenile Task Force and worked to improve Metro Airport. She says, “I loved serving the people of my district when I was representing them at Wayne County. But I truly feel blessed to now represent all the citizens of this great city as Detroit city clerk. They know that Jackie loves them real good.” It’s 6:45 a.m. October 10, 2004, and Jackie L. Currie starts another day rolling from one end of the city to the other, urging residents to get out and vote.
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It’s 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 27, 2004. The lady elected to protect our right to vote is walking down the steps of her brick home to begin a spirit fi lled day visiting five Detroit area churches. It’s a mission to which Detroit City Clerk Jackie L. Currie is committed — getting out the vote for the city that she loves. “We have over 600,000 registered voters in the city of Detroit. I feel these are my folk, people who have stayed in Detroit when others said good-bye. I have to tell them why voting can improve their quality of life.” Jackie Currie is a living legend in Detroit politics. An East-sider by nature, Jackie L., as she is known throughout the city, easily connects with everyone she meets. “I am a city wide city clerk.” People look her in the eye and feel comfortable. She is a caring friend whose history in politics dates back 35 years. “I feel everyone is someone, regardless of race, income and standing in society.” Recently Ms. Currie spoke at the Salvation Army during a Sunday program. “I was approached by a few men who told me they were registered but had never voted. I told them, ‘You are a part of our 200,000 voter campaign.’ This is an aggressive effort to get registered non voters to vote. It’s hard for me to believe we have so many people in this city who don’t go to the polls or even vote absentee ballots. We are committed to changing that and increasing voter turnout in November.” During her 12 years as city clerk, Jackie L. Currie, has diligently implemented programs that have improved voter operations in the community. “What happened four years ago in Florida will not happen here. It’s a different ball game in Detroit because we have taken strong steps to ensure voter security and accountability.” Currently the city of Detroit uses the Optical Scan voting system, a program that feeds the ballot into the machine and tabulates the entire ballot as soon as the ballot is cast. The vote is then stored into a memory pack. When the polls close the memory pack is then transported to the Department of Elections where the votes are calculated for a final count. Fuzion: What can we do to get people out to vote? Currie: We need to keep on talking to each other, spreading the word and working together because voting can change our lives. The Department of Elections has mailed a notice to 300,000 households in the city. We are asking residents to read the document and work with us to update voter records in each household. I am visiting four or five churches per Sunday. Fuzion: Sounds like you are busy. Currie: We are working hard every day. The people who work at Elections are my family. They are dedicated, smart and committed. Every day, as a team, we accomplish our goals by working
Robbin Simmons
FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
October 2004
Glenda Lewis
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ruly a science fiction geek at heart, Robbin Simmons typically poses for the family Christmas card pictures her father takes each year clad in Star Wars costumes. WDIV Local 4’s new weekend anchorwoman, on loan to Detroit from her native Oak Park, Illinois by way of Miami, grewup in the Windy City with her siblings in a modest middle class home. Her madcap father relocated with her mother from Pittsburg to Chicago to shoot photography for Ebony magazine. The 34 year-old’s father was instrumental in influencing her career, and since the age of nine she has charted her destiny. “This is something that I wanted to do. I am incredibly grateful that I’m doing this [working in the media].” Simmons’ father left Ebony and pursued a carrier as a photographer at the Chicago Sun Times. She often accompanied him on his photo shoots, which lead her into many broadcast newsrooms. “I went to work with my Dad at a television station and I said this is it! The energy, noise and excitement hit me and I knew that this is what I wanted to do.”
In the Simmons household, her mother stressed the importance of getting a good education and being well spoken, so Simmons already had a portion of the criteria needed for a television broadcast career. Simmons graduated from the University of Iowa with a bachelor’s degree in communication studies and master’s degree in journalism. Simmons is from Fox WSVN in Miami, Florida, where she held the weekend anchor spot. “The news business is very risky and not for the timid, especially if you’re African American in the newsroom where you’re the only minority,” she explains. “In a market like Miami, there are only two blacks in the newsroom, so the competition among African American’s is very stiff. Often times the sentiments among African American journalists is that they are happy to see other [African American] journalists but will also view you as the next person to take their job.” Unlike Miami, Simmons stated that Detroit is a unique market, because it’s predominantly an African American city that has many African American anchors representing their audience. “In Miami, the newsroom was very ethnically diverse but the majority of the lead anchors are Cuban. Because there are so few African American
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Glenda’s desire not to be an apple on her parent’s tree and fashion her own identity blossomed into the notion that her ideas for a legacy weren’t worlds a part from her parents. “My father was a photographer, an Emmy Award winning editor, he worked on “Knight Rider” and all kinds of stuff, so they both were in the business for a while,” she explains. “You see other cultures doing it all the time … doing what they know, doing what comes naturally, sticking with family and leaving a legacy. So I feel honored to follow in my mother’s footsteps.” The change in professions wasn’t difficult for Glenda because “I never really started. While my degree was there I never really got off into it. I figured myself out before starting my career. I went to Specs [Howard for postgraduate work] and made it happen. I have been working in this career ever since, about seven years.” Just because she’s Lewis’ daughter, she’s not a stranger to climbing the ladder, starting at the bottom like everyone else. She began her career journey at stations in Northern Michigan — known for its “diverse levels of broadcast markets,” she says. “Alpena, where there were only three Black families and two of [them] were mixed, [I was]
lenda Lewis literally grew up in the shadow of her mother. Glenda has gone from a toddler crawling around on the news room floor, to a serious, polished broadcast journalist intent on delivering quality news stories that are balanced and accurate. At first glance, Glenda Lewis isn’t at all what you’d expect, but she’s intriguing and much more than what meets the eye. Born in Detroit, raised in California, the daughter of WXYZ-TV 7 Anchor Diana Lewis continues the legacy her mother began some 45 years ago. “I went to Michigan State. I was an advertising, marketing, communications major and I graduated, did my exit interview, and was well on my way to a $30,000 a year job. I went through the personality profi le and they wanted me to stay and right before I signed on the dotted line I said this isn’t what I wanted to do. What I was raised in and what I was rooted in started calling. The wheels started turning and I said I’m going to go for it now.”
Continued on page 27
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Continued on page 31
Power 2 Our People K. Charles Draper “I am a soldier of the voiceless multitudes, playing a game where the rules all changed.”
What we see is a complete breakdown of economic practice. Institutions that support equilibrium of “supply and demand” must be created. Specifically, we have an abundant supply of distressed property … what we lack are the institutions that demand distressed and/or dysfunctional property. That is the problem! A functional market for distressed property is essential for supporting the value of homes owned by assaulted middle-class homeowners. Please understand that if anyone tries to tell you that a dysfunctional market for distressed properties will not affect the greater real estate market, that person is lying to you. As solutions are proposed, I would expect municipal and state discretion to permit a solution based upon sound economic principles. I propose that it is EVIDENT, NECESSARY AND PROPER that the weight of regulatory powers (oversight, standard-setting, ability to penalize, etc.) and the teeth of Government complacency (when it chooses to do nothing) be to the benefit of the families and neighborhoods that ultimately will be responsible for being empowered to confront solutions and risk. The credit, not treasure (cash), of the state or municipal government can guarantee the principal of monies used to purchase distressed properties by “grouped” neighborhood organizations. Such nonprofit organizations would purchase, refurbish and
In conclusion, the essence of this column speaks to at least two groups. The first is the owners of distressed properties. A new neighborhood economic calculus emerges with but three choices: (1) sell the property at discount to the Neighborhood Reserve Organization, (2) fix the property to code or (3) the property will be demolished (oh yeah, the revenues to pay for demolition are created by the program). The second group in mind is the owners of functional property amid the threat from distressed properties. It is important that you read this column and tell others!! If this column speaks to your interest, let my publisher know. K. Charles Draper is a graduate of Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia, and has a bachelor’s degree in political science. K. Charles can be reached at Kdraper@FuzionMag.com.
October 2004
In this initial column I focus upon systemic (not cyclical) problems. For over 25 years, I’ve witnessed the interests that benefit from dysfunctional and distressed property be permitted to do nothing but maintain a status quo.
The Neighborhood Reserve Organization is to catalyze action. Allowing the property to continue to be distressed could cause perpetual harm to families that depend upon the equity in their homes to finance personal needs: education, fix-up, debt consolidation, etc. Additionally, the dysfunctional housing is not only an eye sore it could pose safety hazards for our children.
Robbin Simmons — continued from page 26
anchors with lead positions there, many take positions in other markets because of the competition. Simmons compares working in the newsroom to working for the United Nations where race is not an issue but a matter of integrity. “That is not an option when it comes to keeping the balance and staying accurate. That is our job. It’s not my business to give you my opinion.” Simmons had her first encounter with racism during an interview at the senatorial elections at KNOW-TV in New Orleans. There she had to interview the staunch racist David Duke, former KKK member. Although she was nervous, Simmons remained balanced, objective and Continued on page 28
FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
Some ideas will be abstract. Most will be tangible. These issues will be significant to your neighborhoods, schools and churches.
sell/rent said dysfunctional property. The net revenues from such transactions would then be divided 49/51 percent between the “Government,” the guarantor of debt, and the tax and dues by current members of the neighborhood organization.
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s Fuzion is an endeavor of significant vision, the ideas instigated within this column will concentrate upon an evolution of power. “Power 2 Our People” captures the essence and title of the column.
Counselor’s Corner Joseph Boyer
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elcome to the introductory issue of Fuzion Magazine and this column, where I will discuss the legal aspects of current news events as well as answer questions from readers concerning generalized legal issues. It will be my goal to share with you my experience as a practicing attorney in a way which presents the practical impact of the legal profession on our everyday lives. I encourage you to write in with questions or issues you would like to see discussed in this column.
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October 2004
I will address two topics in this issue’s column. The first is a topic about which I feel very strongly: our right to vote. I recently saw a voter registration volunteer in front of a local courthouse registering new voters in time for the upcoming elections. I, along with several others, was stunned and saddened when I overheard one young man say to her, “I don’t want to vote.” I spoke recently with a woman who, while registered to vote, had never done so. Without conjuring up images of how many people died for the right to vote or how someone who doesn’t vote cannot complain about our societal woes, I will use this column as an outlet for my observations on how not properly exercising the right to vote affects our daily lives for years after each election. I want to briefly discuss another topic which we encounter on a daily basis — one which requires little or no effort to drastically improve our safety, and which tragically high numbers of people do not make use of: the seatbelt. The reasons I have heard for not wearing seatbelts range from the typical — “It’s uncomfortable,” to the misguided — “The airbags will protect me,” to the justdon’t-get-the-point — “I feel restrained.” Tragically, many people rely on one or more of these rationalizations to justify putting themselves at greater risk every time they get into a motor vehicle. We have grown accustomed to driving about town under the assumption that our own vehicles, and every car and driver around us, will perform perfectly — all the time. That is simply unrealistic. The fact is that you are quite likely to be involved in a high-speed
collision at some point in your life and it is too late to put on your seatbelt as you are being thrown toward your windshield at 60 miles per hour. To be sure, I know someone who would have been seriously injured or killed had she not been ejected from her seat during an accident. We all know someone who knows someone in that situation. However, I have seen many more fatal accident scene photos in which an unrestrained person was killed as a result of being ejected from a vehicle’s passenger compartment. The scenes are far too graphic to discuss here in detail but be assured that 4,000 pounds of steel moving at 60 miles per hour can do a great deal of damage to a human body. My own experience as a passenger in a high-speed frontal collision began with the thought — as I started leaving my seat in route to the windshield — that I would be lucky to wake up in an emergency room. That thought quickly passed as my undesired exit through the windshield was halted by my seatbelt and I was able to walk away with just a diagonal bruise across my chest where the seatbelt caught me. It was the best bruise I’d ever had. So as we go into fall in this election year, help yourself in two ways. Read about the candidates in November’s elections and buckle up as you drive to the polls to vote. Joseph Boyer has a doctorate in juris prudence from Wayne State University Law School. Mr. Boyer handles legal matters including business entity formation, commercial contracts, music/entertainment, divorce and injury claims. For any legal matters feel free to contact him at JAB@joeboyer.com or at Jboyer@Fuzion-Mag.com. Robbin Simmons — Continued from page 27
brought a well reported story to the station. “I was face to face with the leader of the Klan and [I knew] that he looked at me a certain way. He had no idea of my upbringing — that we were not on welfare, we were educated … but I knew not to take his impression of me as an African American female personally, because it was about the story.” Family is important to Simmons, as is being an active spokes person in the community. She is passionate about children’s issues and spends quality time speaking to school children about their futures. “I Continued on page 30
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October 2004
The Bistro Michael Micahnik
Agave
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gave, the brainchild of owners Marco Chavez, Josh Baker and George Mugianis is a new restaurant with an innovative blend of contemporary style and unique authentic Mexican cuisine with dishes from Mexico City and Vera Cruz. Its uniqueness is what distinguishes this restaurant from similar restaurants in Southwest Detroit. Since they have dishes I’ve never encountered, I had to satisfy my curiosity by trying several dishes from the menu.
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October 2004
The Whitefish a-La Veracruzana was simply delicious. The herbs and seasonings definitely made the dish very appealing. The Arroz con Mariscos is a combination of steamed scallops, shrimp, clams and mussels served on a bed of saffron rice. I really enjoyed this mouth-watering entrée. Mussels are not my seafood of choice, but they were prepared with such delectable seasonings that I did not mind eating them. As a genuine meat and potatoes man at heart, it was inevitable that I try the Bistec Asadero (filet mignon). It was tender, perfectly seasoned and just melted in my mouth. This is definitely my favorite entrée on the menu. The characteristic that establishes Agave’s unique appeal is the blend of seasonings that confirm its authentic Mexican origin. Generally, it can be a little annoying to have to request that your server interpret many of the items on the menu, but I found that it was well worth it. The bar never fails you with its menu of reasonably priced mixed drinks, ranging from traditional margaritas to more exotic blends. With more than 65 brands of tequila and 10 flavors of margaritas, Agave will definitely quench your thirst. Agave’s kitchen is open Monday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m., Friday 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 a.m., Saturday from 5:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. and Sunday from 4:00 p.m. until 12:00 a.m. The bar is open seven days a week from the regular opening hours 2:00 a.m.
Agave was voted Best Mexican Restaurant in Real Detroit in 2003, Best Margaritas in Hour Magazine in 2003 and was featured in the New York Times as a great destination place in Detroit. Overall, Agave is a very nice spot for patrons who enjoy dining on authentic Mexican cuisine in a very fun and relaxing atmosphere. And, for those who want a little more upbeat atmosphere, there is the funky beat of house music on Sunday nights. Agave 4326 Woodward Avenue • Detroit 48201 (313) 833-1120 • www.agavedetroit.com Michael Micahnik has freelanced as a restaurant critic with various circulars and local Web sites in the Metro Detroit area. To have your restaurant reviewed feel free to email him at Mmicahnik@Fuzion-Mag.com. Robbin Simmons — continued from page 28
will show kids that they have options and don’t have to be a rapper or a baller. That it is okay to speak in proper English and they shouldn’t be teased for that [speaking proper English].” Doing her part to extend the gift of life to the ill is also something she is very passionate about since both sides of her family have been stricken with cancer. Although she has only been a Detroit resident for five months, Simmons plans to become actively involved with the local branch of the American Cancer foundation. Detroiters seem to have been welcoming Simmons with open arms since her arrival in June of this year. “I was out on assignment and a gentleman [called] me by name telling me how great a job I was doing. In Detroit people watch the news, and really pay attention to what you say. I have been so pleased with the amount of generosity that I have received.” While Chicago is home, with all of her family there, Simmons has a feeling of satisfaction knowing that she is now closer to home. “Now at least my father won’t call me as soon as I get off the plane to give me his likes and dislikes of my new location!” Simmons laughs. “I love my job, I love my family, my books and I’m just excited to start on a new journey and to see where it leads. I’d like to feel like I found someplace that I can Continued on page 31
Glenda Lewis — continued from page 26
tures that can’t protect themselves. “We should want to ensure that they’re given the best of what they need to grow into the best that they can be,” she says. Glenda is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and her favorite hot spots are Greektown and Sweet Georgia Brown, and she loves to go dancing at Half Past Three. Robbin Simmons — continued from page 30
call home … After the short time that I’ve been here I really like it.” In addition to locations in Miami and New Orleans, Simmons has also worked at WBBH-TV in Fort Meyers, Florida and WBNS-TV in Columbus, Ohio. It was in 1998 at WBNS where Simmons picked up an Emmy Award for her outstanding work in journalism as well as the Newsweek/Steve Salter Scholar award. You can see Robbin Simmons on Local 4 where she is a general assignment reporter during the week and anchor on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
is a French/Belgian restaurant and Café Habana is Michigan’s first full Cubaninfluenced restaurant. In the lower level is the lounge, Cinq. The Metro Times featured all three establishments in this year’s “Best of Detroit” issue. Look for Vino Tecca, a wine bar, to open soon. Although extremely busy, Stinger is still involved with various community organizations. Vista Maria’s treatment center for girls who’ve been abused, Ronald McDonald House, Athletes for a Better Detroit and Think Detroit, which builds character in young people through sports and technology, just to name a few. She has received many awards since joining Fox 2, including eight Emmy nominations and six Emmy awards from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. Stinger also conducts lectures and workshops for young people on building success strategies and provides corporate training services. Be sure to tune in to Fanchon Stinger every weekday from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., on Detroit’s only all-local morning news show.
October 2004
Fanchon Stinger — continued from page 22
FUZION MAGAZINE — DETROIT
it’s a changing business to where there’re so many young people that don’t have that same appreciation.” Today, young journalists are being pushed up the ladder and are entering into positions where they don’t belong. She explains the quality has diminished, but the product is more polished with lots of bells and whistles, flashier graphics and more women and minorities. Although the package has changed, the viewers benefit from the newsroom becoming more diverse with women and minorities that brings more balance, accuracy and proper portrayals of the communities they cover with them. “Your influence can change thought about the way stories are delivered and how stories are covered. But that’s a misconception of news; the misconception amongst a lot of people is that we should be somewhat of a convention and visitors bureau. I say that meaning, we should show this and we should not show that, and when people say that to you they really don’t know what they’re saying. You’re saying, skew the truth for me, so that I can deal with it and that’s not what we do. The fact that there are eight shootings on the west side in a night isn’t our fault because we tell you that.” Accuracy is paramount in the highpaced business of broadcast and competition to be the first with the scoop and knowing the facts is crucial to the job. For Glenda, the task isn’t difficult because she practices double checking, triple checking and quadruple checking the facts before delivering a report. On the issue of a sisterhood in media, she says there definitely is one, although the women in the business often don’t get the opportunity to hang-out much because they stay so busy, but when they see each other on assignments there’s most definitely a camaraderie among them. Glenda looks forward to planning her wedding — she’s engaged — and continuing her work at Channel 7. She wants her viewers to know that she loves Detroit and is passionate about the community. She enjoys participating with any organization that protects animals and children because children are impressionable sponges that are important to our futures, and animals are innocent crea-
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making $5.34 an hour, one-man-banded, working 12-hour shifts and crying every night, but I was so happy to be in it.” She dispels the myth that she used her mother’s influence to cushion her career trek stating that [her mother] couldn’t pull any strings for her sake and that she wasn’t given any special favors. Her achievements are the product of plain hard work and tenacity. “I tell you, it’s such a wonderful compliment that I can do the job that I do and people think I’m fresh out of college doing it, how awesome. Our business is unique in that when the camera goes on and you see ‘live’ in the left hand corner, Mom’s not giving it, I am,” she says, “So, our business is unique in that you see my work and hopefully that speaks for itself, and anyone without experience can’t deliver that.” Her aspirations were to return to the station, the city where the dream began. Glenda, 29, has accomplished those goals, she says, and after making her debut on WXYZ-TV/Channel 7 on September 1, she couldn’t be happier. “I’ve walked the halls of this station since I was a little girl. This is a dream come true — not without hard work — but this is a goal accomplished. This is amazing to me and I’m awe struck sometimes, not because I’m here but because I put my feet to the pavement and got what I wanted.” After completing a successful trek through various markets throughout the state — WBKB in Alpena, WLNS in Lansing and WJRT in Flint — Glenda has reached her comfort zone and has decided to chill for a while and enjoy the ride. When she reflects on her grooming and the trends that have evolved in broadcast, she says the shift from the “old school” method of mastering the business is her pet peeve. “I came up the “old school” way. My mother and Bill Bonds were the first white man/ black woman team in Detroit. I knew the business at a time when it was shifting to putting minorities on the air let alone women it was a Caucasian male dominated business for years. The team work, the writing and the level of thought that went into everything at that time; what bothers me now is that
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Advertiser Index IFC JACKIE L. CURRIE City of Detroit, 200 Coleman A. Young Municipal Building, Detroit, Michigan 48226, 313-224-3260, www.ci.detroit. mi.us 3 ANTONIO STOKES Assistant Branch Manager, 30555 Southfield Road, Ste. 300, Southfield, Michigan 48076, 800-713-7417, www.Yourlenderforlife.com 7 BASTONE 419 E. Main Street, Royal Oak, 248-544-6250
13 BLACK DIAMOND ENTERTAINMENT PO Box 211045, Detroit, Michigan 48221, 313-585-7100, Blackdiamondgroup.prodigy.net
Fuzion Magazine — Detroit Coire D. Nichols Houston chouston@fuzion-mag.com PUBLISHER
Brenda Lewis 13 PERSONAL TECH DETROIT 313-835-9704, www.personal-techdetroit.com
blewis@fuzion-mag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Cassandra Davis cdavis@fuzion-mag.com MARKETING/PR DIRECTOR
13 JOSEPH A. BOYER, P.L.L.C. 24901 Northwestern Highway, Suite 122, Southfield, Michigan 48075, 248-262-9800, Jab@joeboyer. com
Crystal Folson cfolson@fuzion-mag.com ADMINSTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Michael Ragland mragland@fuzion-mag.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
CDN Communications, LLC 7 CAFÉ HABANA 109 East 5th Street, Royal Oak, 248-544-6250 7 CDBABY.COM AMACrecords. com, www.Pennywells.com 8 ENZO’S CATERING 734-2667258, Senchich@sbcglobal.net 8 STUDIO 85 230 West 9 Mile Road, Ferndale, Michigan 48220, 313995-3324, 248-0541-4611
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October 2004
8 HIGHLINE GALLERY 21500 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, Michigan 48075, 248-283-4295 9 PERSONAL TECH DETROIT 313-835-9704, www.personal-techdetroit.com 9 PERSONAL TECH DETROIT 313-835-9704, www.personal-techdetroit.com 9 YELCHO WINES Distributed by Galaxy, 248-363-5300, www.vventisquero.com
15 DEBBIE DARAKDJIAN Makeup artist, 586-557-4119, www.Makeupbydebbie.com
PO Box 201127 Ferndale, MI 48220 313-341-9512
23 JULIAN SCOTT DEPARTMENT STORE 151 West Shelby, Detroit, Michigan 48226, 313-965-5200, www. Julianscott.com
Coire D. Nichols Houston
29 EDWARD FOXWORTH Director of Community Affairs, UPN Channel 50, CBS Channel 62, Efoxworth3@CBS.com
BC ANTONIO STOKES Assistant Branch Manager, 30555 Southfield Road, Ste. 300, Southfield, Michigan 48076, 800-713-7417, www.Yourlenderforlife.com
IBC WMXD MIX 92.3 Clear Channel Radio, 645 Griswold, Suite 633, Detroit, Michigan 48226, 313965-2000
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