Fuzion Magazine Detroit by Coire Nichols Houston

Volume 3 Number 1 January/February 2006 www.fuzion-mag.com Complimentary

The Kilpatricks, Detroit’s First Family

Tavis Smiley’s Conference Maps Roads to Success Why This Father Got MADD : Interview with MADD National Chairman Glynn Birch

Super Bowl XL Preview including an interview with Comerica Bank’s Melanie Odom

In this issue 2 The Synthesis New Year, New First … Coire Nichols Houston

10 The Car Man The Auto Industry 2005 Don Houston

12 Community Chronicles Start It Up! Edward Foxworth III

16 The BlackSphere Detroit area events February 2006

Fuzion G

Cover Story: The Kilpatricks, Detroit’s First Family

Volume 3 Number 1 • January/February 2006

We would love to hear from you. Please send your questions, comments and suggestions to: letters@fuzion-mag. com

Coire Nichols Houston, RaShani Boynton, Photographer

At the time of our visit it was late November, 2005. Every headline from radio, television and print reported that Detroit was about to undergo yet another financial attack, as a result of a recount of the votes from the mayoral, city clerk and council elections. Many people who knew I would be interviewing the mayor had given me an array of questions to ask for personal and professional reasons.…

Legacy

24 World Traveler Tour Detroit: The Best Detroit Has to Offer—Bed and Breakfast Sanya Westin

25 Wellness 101 Herman Glass, D.C.

28 The Book Beat “The People Next Door” Roy Kyles

30 Power 2 Our People Taking Charge of Your Economic Destiny

Gwen Thomas

34 Paparazzi RaShani Boynton This Issue’s contributers

RaShani Boynton

rboynton@fuzion-mag.com

Edward Foxworth III

efoxworth@fuzion-mag.com

Herman Glass

Barbara Petterson Scott

26 Tavis Smiley’s Conference Maps Roads to Success

Coire D. Nichols Houston chouston@fuzion-mag.com DESIGN DIRECTOR

Brenda Lewis blewis@fuzion-mag.com

14 Feature Story: Why This Father Got MADD Interview with MADD National Chairman Glynn Birch Coire Nichols Houston

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

SENIOR EDITOR

Pauline Averbach paverbach@fuzion-mag.com editorial contact

Fuzion Magazine PO Box 201127 Ferndale, MI 48220 313-416-2293

Gwen Thomas

drglassii@sbcglobal.net

Kenneth L. Harris

Good Help Wanted

kharris@fuzion-mag.com

Don Houston

dhouston@fuzion-mag.com

Roy Kyles

rkyles@fuzion-mag.com

Legacy

legacy@fuzion-mag.com

Barbara Petterson Scott bscott@fuzion-mag.com

Gwen Thomas

Copyright 2006 CDN Communications, LLC. Volume 3, Number 1, January/ February 2006 (ISSN 1552-7123). 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 is seeking experienced advertising sales representatives

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Sanya Westin 313-273-7648

3 1 3 . 4 1 6 . 2 2 9 3 repswanted@fuzion-mag.com

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32 On the Set with Gwen Thomas The 2005 Black Movie Awards

8 Feature Story: Melanie Odom, Our Local Super Bowl Hero Interview with Comerica Bank’s Melanie Odom

Kenneth L. Harris

The Synthesis Coire D. Nichols Houston

New Year, New Firsts …

Thomas,” will give our readers a firsthand look into the entertainment world; Kenneth Harris, whose “Power to Our People” addresses the importance of supporting our own small businesses; and finally, Dr. Herman Glass, who will share his insights into holistic health.

appy New Year, Detroit! And what a great year it will be. We are starting 2006 off with many firsts, among them an interview with Detroit’s first family, the Kilpatricks. We had the honor of visiting the mayor and his family shortly after his re-election, finding out little known facts about the Kilpatrick clan, as well as the mayor’s agenda for this year.

As always we welcome your suggestions, questions and feedback. Have a safe and happy Super Bowl Sunday Detroit-style and we’ll see you soon. With peace, love and prosperity always,

With Super Bowl XL on the horizon, we sat down with the first African American male national president of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Glynn Birch, who tells how he came to join MADD and offers tips on avoiding being tipsy behind the wheel. We are proud to introduce our new columnists and their first stories for Fuzion: Don Houston, “The Car Man,” will be offering a print version of his radio show (WGPR 107.5 Sundays at 2:00 p.m.); Gwen Thomas, whose “On the Set With Gwen

Coire D. Nichols Houston is the editor-in-chief of Fuzion Magazine . Feel free to contact her at Chouston@FuzionMag.com.

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Saturday, February 4th, 2006 @ Pontiac Silverdome Gates open at 8:00 AM and kickoff at 10:00 AM

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Come out and watch the Snoop Dogg Jr. All-Stars take on the Detroit P.A.L. All-Stars in a charity youth football game!

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The Kilpatricks, Detroit’s First Family By Coire Nichols Houston

Carlita and Kwame

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

t the time of our visit it was late November, 2005. Every headline from radio, television and print reported that Detroit was about to undergo yet another financial attack, as a result of a recount of the votes from the mayoral, city clerk and council elections. Many people who knew I would be interviewing the mayor had given me an array of questions to ask for personal and professional reasons. As I quietly walked up the circular driveway leading to the Manoogian, I saw shadows of children running back and forth behind the billowing curtains of the second floor. Seconds later, as I reached to ring the doorbell, I heard faint screams of laughter. Uncertain of what to expect, I was suddenly filled with a sense of warmth and calm because this is not just the Manoogian Mansion, this is the mayor’s home. So, I decided not to focus on politics, recounts or accusations before or during the election. Because beyond being the mayor of the city of Detroit, Kwame Kilpatrick is a father and a husband. I had every opportunity “to go deep,” yet I chose to take another approach by visiting, rather than interviewing, Detroit’s first family, the Kilpatricks. In spite of everything that has happened over the last years, months and weeks or, in their case, days and hours, the Kilpatricks have managed to

keep the press away from their little ones. “It wasn’t really until right before the election…” says first lady Carlita Kilpatrick. “Out of all four years, it wasn’t until right before...” interjects the mayor, “that we really had to answer any questions.” The first lady continues, “There was one time they (the press) were actually following me around and they (the children) were asking questions that we had to answer. For the most part we turned everything around into social studies or civics lessons. Sometimes there were even undesirables who gathered in front of the house, and we explained the right of freedom of speech with their right to picket in front of the house. So they were engaged for about two minutes asking how long would they be in front of the house. Do they have to be that loud? Will they quiet it down! And then it was over. We are just really blessed and we keep God first in our life which has kept our family together.” In efforts to capture another side of our first family, we asked how they spend their personal time. “I like to read,” she says. He laughs, mumbling, “Garbage!” “I like James Patterson,” she continues. “What I do is if I really like the authors I will read all of their books like Vanessa Jackson, all her books are great, and E. Lynn Harris. “We both really liked ‘The Da Vinci Code,’” adds the mayor. One way the Kilpatricks keep the boys grounded is by reducing television time and keeping them involved in team sports. “I only allow the kids to watch television from 5:00 p.m. on Friday through 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. The rest of the week is spent by participating in sports—football, soccer—and doing homework,” the first lady says. “She started this five years ago as a result of what was on TV, [laughing] which has been hard on me,” says the mayor. Speaking of television, he does admit to watching “his shows,” after 10:00 p.m., whatever they might be. She is a fan of NBC’s “West Wing” and UPN’s “America’s Top Model.” At the time of our visit she was rooting for Brie (a contestant on “Top Model”) and gave us updates from the kitchen, which is the threshold of the Kilpatrick home, and off-limits to us!

Continued on page 25

More “First Family” on the next page

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

office and to share his transition from being a 31-year-old state representative to becoming mayor of the 11th largest city in the country. “The transition was not that difficult. I was the Democratic leader and I was handling a staff. What I didn’t really understand was how big this chair is. The mayor of Detroit is an international seat. If you sneeze, someone from Mexico might hand you a tissue, because they’re hearing it. The person who sits in this chair is always under attack. Depending on what kind of guy you are that’s what kind of attack you’re getting. “It’s ridiculous. We have people out here in our bushes. We were on a trip to Disney World and we have people calling our hotel room asking who paid for this trip. [Laughing] You’d think I was Michael Jackson or somebody. I had no idea that it would be like this. This was a huge change for both of us.” FYI, the earring is gone forever… Not avoiding the issues at hand, I asked what we should expect from the Kilpatrick administration in the next four years. “Detroit is about to go through a revolutionary change, because the manufacturing industry is drying up. We are not building any more plants. The car industry in America is really under attack globally. In the next four years we are going to start to engage in new industries; wireless communications, getting into the entertainment industry, health care technology and building up new businesses. But the main problem in Detroit is the lack of employment. Crime and housing stops because no one is able to get a job.” Has the reversal of Detroit’s residency requirement for city workers attributed to increase of crime and the city’s financial problems? “That’s huge! If there’s a big pie, that’s 50 percent of our problem, non-city workers. There are 16,000 people in our employment base that do not have to live in the city of Detroit and 50 percent are gone. Fifty percent of our tax base that we [city residents] are paying for. This includes more than 50 percent of our police and fire department employees that live outside of our city limits.” He continues. “Not only is it a costly economic issue, but costly for our quality of life. When most of us grew up we had some cop that lived down the street or around the corner, and it just adds to the quality of life. It just creates a good vibe within the community. That really hurt our city.” He later adds, “When we have so many city workers living outside of the city it really hurts our economy. As a result of living outside of the city we are losing our sales tax dollars, and there is no circulation of that

On the radio: “In the car, I really listen to gospel music or Frankie (Darcell),” says the first lady. On the other hand, “They [the kids] listen to all that with me. ‘ALL THAT!’ Yep, Jay-Z,” says the mayor. “So I run out and I get all the clean versions for his car,” say the first lady “We all like gospel. We jam to gospel music…” When asked if he could sing, the mayor admitted that he could. The first lady smiled, nodding yes. But when I asked him to sing a few notes he shied away. Typically, the office of mayor in most metropolitan cities is held by people 55 or older. But as the youngest mayor in the country, he and his young family might have younger interests. So I asked, “Are you being forced into becoming an older man? How do you continue to maintain your youth?” “That’s a good question,” he said, “because if I were 60, I could go to McDonald’s, go to a club, or go hang out and no one would even care. They care because [at the time of entering office] I was 31. It’s hard to stay young in this job because of the pressures of it, and what you learn from it matures you real fast. I have to stay wise beyond my years. I’ve had to stop doing things that I would do normally. I used to drive around the city, pop the top [in the summertime] and just drive around. It’s really tough to do that kind of stuff now. People are always following me asking, ‘What are you doing? Where are you going?’” They do, however, try to continue to have the normalcy of a typical family by going to Belle Isle, the movies, and even McDonald’s. As a couple they still go to concerts and walk together in the neighborhood, but of course with security not far behind. “Sometimes we don’t have security with us but 90 percent of the time we do,” he says, “because it’s good to have another pair of eyes. I can be at the playscape, at Belle Isle and someone will come up to me and want to talk about their water bill, their bulk garbage not being picked up and I have to kind of step back because I’m trying to keep and eye on my kids.” As the saying goes, you never know where you’re going unless you know where you’ve been. So I asked the mayor to reflect on his first term in

Jalil and Jelani

hile identical in appearance, Jalil and Jelani, 10, are as opposite as they come. Their distinct personalities are evident, and show promise of futures as bright as those of their parents, Carlita and Kwame. After spending two hours with the Kilpatrick children, we came away impressed. All three were truly a delight. The living room of the Manoogian Mansion was turned Jalil Kilpatrick into a stage setting for “The Jalil, Jelani, and Jonas Show.” During the course of our visit, we were entertained with impersonations of

Michael Jackson, serenaded with gospel hymns on the grand piano, and received two Benjamin Mays school step performances, marched by the twins yet dictated by little Jonas. In the mist of their stepping, the boys flashed the signs of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, indicating that Mom and Dad have educated them on the original and true essence of “stepping.” The two favor horror movies of every genre—“Candyman,” “Chucky,” “Hide & Seek” and “Alien.” These include the Blade trilogy of vampire films starring Wesley Snipes. Jalil likes “Blade Trinity” while Jelani favors “Blade 2.” I managed to open up a can of worms once I announced myself as a being a Cougar Mom (Detroit Police Athletic Little League Football). Both boys played for the Vikings team this past season, but previously played on and will be returning to the Westside Cubs, archrivals of the Northwest Cougars. All in good fun, we booed each other with our thumbs down. Jelani prides himself on being in

the position of side tight end, while Jalil plays defensive end.

begin his interview and who he would talk to first. Not knowing whom he needed to address he began by addressing everyone, asking, “Who are you and what do you want?” Jonas entertained and humored us throughout our entire visit with the Kilpatricks. It was not until the end of our photo shoot that we were able to catch up with him and talk. A healthy eater, he reports broccoli and carrots are his favorite foods. The Kilpatrick children are only designated certain days of the week to watch television—after 5:00 p.m. on Friday, ending on Sunday at the same time. However, Nickelodeon’s “Dora the Explorer” ranks high with him, along with his ability to speak Spanish in which he recited the days of the week and counted from one to 10. While he is still unable to read, his favorite book is Barney. t

Things you should know about Jelani:

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

Jonas

is expressions say it all. Jonas, 4, is the youngest of the Kilpatrick clan. “Jo Jo,” his nickname, is far from camerashy. As we prepared for our photo shoot our team often chuckled as Jonas reported candidly from upstairs to twin brothers Jalil and Jelani, 10, on how Daddy demanded that they get into the shower— now! Once prepared he scampered into the sunken living room of the ManoJonas Kilpatrick gian, which had been deemed off-limits to everyone including the Mayor! He ran around the room once, evaluating where he would

Here are some little unknown facts about Jalil: M Favorite

recording artist is Michael Jackson, and song is “Billy Jean” of which he has an excellent Jelani Kilpatrick impression M Math is his favorite school subject M Bill Cosby is the funniest M Nickelodeon’s “Avatar: The Last Airbender” is the best television program M Basketball is his sport M Turkey bacon can be eaten for breakfast, lunch and dinner M Has aspirations of becoming a philosopher

M Favorite recording artists are former

rapper Jay-Z, as well as Will Smith M Loves social studies and African-

American history M Will Smith is his favorite actor and

“The Fresh Prince of Bel Air” is his show M He plays regular football but prefers street football M Likes turkey bacon as well but also enjoys fried swordfish from Southern Fires M Plans on becoming a scientist t

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

Melanie Odom, Our Local Super Bowl Hero By Barbara Petterson Scott

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

Melanie Odom

s I entered the 32nd floor reception area of Comerica Bank, 500 Woodward Avenue in downtown Detroit, I quickly noticed that this area has no money or tellers. The 32nd floor is filled with something much more precious—commitment—as recognized by the numerous plaques, awards and certificates of recognition for Comerica’s leadership and involvement in Detroit. This display is impressive and so large that there isn’t enough room for it all to be displayed on the walls. Talk about a reception—no need to wonder about the bank’s statements about being a proud sponsor any longer, as there is ample evidence here.

This is Comerica Bank’s Public Affairs department. From here, its offices overlook a breathtaking, serene view of the Detroit River, one that provides a calming since of peace, especially soothing in Detroit’s busy downtown. I can see why Comerica has such a successful employee volunteer turnout, and is involved as heavily as it is in giving back to the community that it does business with. I interviewed Melanie Odom, Comerica’s vice president of civic affairs. Melanie was as welcoming and wholesome as grandma’s apple pie just as it comes out of the oven. She told me about the deep dedication of corporate citizenship that Comerica has expressed and continues to exhibit in Detroit. One example is the upcoming Super Bowl in February—Comerica is the corporate sponsor of the 8,000 volunteers, of which 400 are Comerica personnel who’ll be serving as welcome ambassadors at hotels, airports, on the city streets, and at the NFL Experience at Cobo Hall during Super Bowl week. Comerica has provided all funding for the volunteer programming, which helps underwrite the central volunteer office

Comerica is also participating in the December Public Television Telethon, with 80 employees volunteering to answer telephones as donors call with pledges. Among Comerica’s numerous projects are the New Junior Achievement building, Youthville of Detroit, You Snap Back housing program, and Habitat for Humanity. Melanie said that Comerica helps with a lot of faith-based programs in Detroit such as Hartford Baptist Church’s Youth Center, and Second Ebenezer Church, along with many more. Comerica continues to have its in-school youth savings program, in which I took part back in the 1970s; elementary-school students can start a bank account and manage it while at school to educating themselves about banking and its privileges and responsibilities. When discussing Comerica’s role in the community I asked Melanie what type of person would get involved in an effort as vast as Comerica’s. A volunteer myself I, knew exactly what she meant when she said, “As a representative of the corporate community the efforts have to be authentic or they don’t make a difference. Capital resources are good, but the

human resources are needed to make a project effective.” It’s true that the effort will only go as far as we carry it, and that includes every one of us. Melanie Odom exemplifies that philosophy. Outside of Comerica, she is involved deeply with 40 years’ membership in St. Steven’s A.M.E. Church. Some of her other community involvements include Sweet Dreamzzz Detroit, which provides sleep education to inner-city children, and Ellington White—a nonprofit that supports the performing arts. Melanie is also member of the United Negro College Fund, the DIA-friends of the African American Children’s Museum, the Charles Wright Museum of African American History, and is a dedicated citizen of Detroit and its rich resources. Comerica sponsors the “Comerica Homefront ”section in the Michigan Chronicle—it’s the first bank to sponsor a portion of the newspaper that ‘s devoted to Detroit’s public/civic services and is keeping the Chronicle readers informed about what’s been going on with Detroit and its community resources. Melanie is the primary person who oversees the creativity and production of the business section in the Chronicle’s sister publication, Front Page and notes the recent improvements and changes that have taken place with this section. Comerica—the citizens of Detroit, its community organizations and civic/faithoriented groups value your firm commitments to our great city as both a dedicated business and a citizen. A big thank-you to Comerica Bank. t

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

The Car Man Don Houston

The Auto Industry 2005 A Year in Review

he year 2005 has been a challenge for the automobile industry. Rising gas prices are one of the biggest concerns automobile consumers thought about before they made a purchase. I’m certain in parts of the country gas prices reached in excess of $3 a gallon. The average cost to fill up an SUV or pickup truck exceeded $50. At press time the average cost per gallon was $2.10. Unfortunately, SUV or pickup truck owners still are faced with high-cost fill-ups. This problem has made consumers think twice about an SUV or pickup.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

A good alternative are the hybrids, gasoline-electric dual powered vehicles. Industry experts predict that the number of hybrid vehicle models on the market—10 in 2005—will grow to 44 models by 2012. Toyota and Ford are two of the manufactures that offer hybrid models. If a dual-powered vehicle is not for you, you might consider a compact SUV, whose popularity seemed to catch on in 2005. On highways across America you see more and more of these smaller SUVs. Some popular models are the Jeep Liberty, Ford Escape and the Toyota Rav 4. The compact SUV gives the automobile consumer a combination of cargo space and reasonable fuel economy. The compact SUV has been caught on with female consumers because of its size. Despite rising gas prices, the top-selling vehicle in recent years has been a pickup truck, the Ford Fseries. The Chevy Silverado pickup and the Dodge Ram pickup also are within the top 10. 2005 has been a year that, I think, has changed the auto industry forever. For the first time ever, the Big Three—Chrysler, Ford and GM—offered employee pricing to the public. This program started as a 30-day campaign by GM and eventually ran all summer. Ford and Chrysler quickly followed suit in offering employee pricing on their respective brands, with a very few exceptions. This gave each manufacturer several months of record sales. Consumers responded and came out and purchased. But, as I predicted, one month after this program ended the industry was struggling for sales. Those prices had opened up the consumers’ eyes and I believe they are watching for the next employee

price program. And I have a hunch we will see those types of prices again. But until then, do your research before you buy. The Internet has several automobile Web sites that can assist you in not only getting the vehicle for you but also at the best prices. According to a report from Reuters of October 3, 2005, listed below are the top-selling vehicles January–September 2005. P Ford F-series pickup P Chevy Silverado-C/K

pickup

P Toyota Camry P Dodge Ram pickup P Honda Accord

P Toyota Corolla P Honda Civic P Nissan Altima P Ford Explorer P Chevrolet Trailblazer

Thank you for reading my very first column. It is my goal to give you information that will educate you and make you a smarter automobile consumer. And I will close each column with my Car Man Tip.

Car Man Tip: Upside Down Cars As the year ends anyone who is reading this story and has a car with a balance owed is more than likely “upside down” or owing more on your car than it is actually worth. My advice to you is to explore the option of trading your vehicle in before January 1, 2006. If you wait until after the first of the year your car will lose value because it will be a year older. I strongly encourage the readers who have high-mileage vehicles with balances to move quickly before this target date. In the next issue we will preview the hot cars and trucks for 2006. Remember: You Can With Car Man! t Don “The Car Man” Houston is the president of Car Man Promotions, Inc and the host of The Car Man Show on WGPR 107.5 FM every Sunday from 2:00–3:00 p.m. If you would like to contact him call 773-443-7504 or go to his Web site, www.thecarmanshow.com.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

Community Chronicles Edward Foxworth III

Start It Up!

hhh, new beginnings! What an amazing feeling of being able to put the past behind us and start anew. With the new year, we have a brand-new opportunity to pay off that debt, change careers, go back to school, focus on being a better person, learn to fly, get married or divorced, whichever is your pleasure. Whatever the case, downtime during the holidays gives us all the chance to reflect on the highs and lows of the past, things done right and other things that we wish we had a second crack at. Money that we’ve misspent, held too tight, didn’t make enough of or wished that we had more of.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

With the new year in front of us, we can stop procrastinating about reading or writing the book we’ve been talking about. Each of us can forget about the discipline that we wish that we had more of as we tried to get better organized. No need to worry about the weight we tried to lose or the fact that we started out the year trying to work smarter and not harder, without success. As of this moment, we are all hereby given another opportunity to accomplish the unfilled desire of wanting to travel more, wanting to date more or of possibly retiring to work free-lance! Wait a second. Why didn’t these things get done? Are we so bogged down with stuff that we don’t plan to live? It all sounded so good while the ball was dropping in New York, ‘Should old acquaintance be forgot…’ you know how it goes. It was being sung by any and all as we toasted with whatever we had in our hands, thousands of us were leaving churches, many more leaving nightclubs and casinos. Fast forward. It’s January 2, time to kick this resolution thing into full gear! Into the fitness centers we go, on the phone talking to creditors ready to pay off the bill, contacting the local colleges and universities to register for classes and so on. Great! Me? I’m just personally happy to see the enthusiasm and go get ’em attitude. But wait; let’s slow it down and pace ourselves a bit Making good New Year’s resolutions requires more than wishful thinking. Experts recommend that if you want to be successful in completing your newly found goals, you must; 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.

1. Create a plan that translates into clear steps that can be put into action. 2. Harness your motivation and create this plan within the first few days of January. 3. Write down your resolutions and plan and make several copies, placing one on the fridge, one in the car and giving one to a close friend. 4. Think year ‘round,” not just New Year’s. 5. Remain flexible. Expect that your plan can and will change. Life has a funny way of throwing unexpected things your way. For example, many of us might not remember the headlines of this past year, either in our personal lives, in this city, the country or the world. How many of those things were in our plans? What we will remember is that it is all so important to wake up, by the grace of God, and know that regardless of what is going on, we must recommit ourselves to putting one foot in front of the other! On a similar note, we all know that the holidays are meant to celebrate, relax and reflect on the reason for the season. However, surmounting issues may allow symptoms of depression to creep in, particularly in this region of the world where the harsh and cold winters force people to spend more time inside. I bet you didn’t know that more than 20 million people suffer in this country from this quietly kept illness and—get this—6 million of them are men! So as the weather has changed and we all head toward home earlier, monitoring our exercise, food intake, mood swings and so forth are extremely important. I bring this up because this mental illness is one of the biggest barriers to accomplishing our goals. We remember the loss of family and friends, are overwhelmed by the holidays, we experience an increased feeling of laziness and tend not to move as much as we did when the sun was shining and outdoor activities were plentiful. So if this is you or someone you know, don’t hide from it. Fight it and win. For help, I would recommend a couple of places serving the Metro Detroit community. Teenagers and schools should contact Heather Irish at the M.I.N.D.S. (Mental Illness Needs Discussions) program at (248) 644-8003. For anyone else, especially men, contact Detroit Central City whose number is (313) 831-3160. or Craig McClean of Eastwood Clinics at (248) 542-6070. When it’s all said and done, you and your goals matter most—getting through this thing called Life, one day, one week, one month and one year at a time. I hope you have a happy and prosperous new year! t

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Why This Father Got MADD By Coire Nichols Houston

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Mothers Against Drunk Driving National President Glynn Birch

Birch (3rd from right) with MADD Detroit office staff

e are anxiously counting down the days, minutes and hours to one of the greatest events in Detroit’s sporting history, Super Bowl XL. The buzz everywhere has been all of the super events that will be taking place. But, while everyone is anticipating a week’s worth of celebrity appearances and partying like it’s 2006, we must remain aware of one very important issue that seems to go hand-in-hand with major sports events—drinking and driving. Fuzion talked with Glynn Birch, national president of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). He pointed us to MADD’s national Web site, which offers the following statistics: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 58 people died in alcohol-related crashes on Super Bowl Sunday in 2004, representing 64 percent of all traffic deaths on that day. The only other holiday with a higher percentage of alcohol-

related fatalities in 2004 was New Year’s Day with 91 deaths, accounting for 69 percent of all traffic

fatalities that day. Birch is quoted as follows: “The Super Bowl is usually thought of as a fun time with friends watching football and laughing over clever commercials, but there is a bigger issue that needs to be addressed. Who is driving the person home that has been drinking? Everyone should have a game plan before the fun starts on Super Bowl Sunday, such as a designated driver or alternative transportation.” Birch’s story began on May 3, 1998. “On his way outside following his older cousins to the ice-cream truck, my 22-month-old son was hit and killed,” says Birch. “Under the impression that it was an accident, a neighbor handed me the local newspaper which indicated that the driver had three previous alcohol-related convictions with a blood-alcohol level of 3.6, which equated to the consumption of 15 beers.” Birch’s attorney suggested that he contact MADD. After making the call, he assumed that his wife would be attending their first meeting with him. However, as she was still too devastated, Birch went by himself. That meeting changed his life forever, Birch says. “The victim advocate [with MADD] allowed me to grieve as a man, which neither my church nor society allows. Typically the men of the family have to stay strong. However, she accompanied me to court, which empowered me even more and let me know that it is all right for me to grieve from the loss of a child.” MADD, he says, helped him so much that it inspired him to share that support with others. Incidentally, the drunk driver was convicted and sentenced to 15 years, and has since died. “Being the national president and a minority, I want to make sure that our people [African Americans] understand the services that MADD offers. The reason why I am in the limelight locally is because I am a man and I am black, and after telling my story I drew everyone’s attention. I want the services to be available for everyone in our community. In the African-American community we do not buckle our seatbelts. I can’t stop repeating that this is the best defense from the drunk driver. Not only that, but I want to educate our young by addressing that alcohol is a drug. Not only are there enough drugs in our community but alcohol can be found, particularly in our community, on every Continued on page 25

15 Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006 15 Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

The BlackSphere—Your Detroit Connection for Arts and Culture Chantay “Legacy” Leonard

February 2006

etroit is the place to be in early 2006! The city is serving up a sizzling array of entertainment, dining, cultural events and exhilaration for your senses. Indulge as the Detroit scene explodes with exciting events for everyone. This month is also a time to honor the achievements, history and heritage of African Americans. Let us celebrate!

Family Fun Oh, Ananse! 02/04/06–02/18/06, 2:00 p.m. Detroit Puppet Theater 25 E. Grand River Detroit 313-961-7777

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

A hip hop-flavored puppet showcase about the clever antics of Ananse the spider, based on a favorite West African folktale.

Sesame Street Live: Elmo’s Coloring Book 02/10/2006, 11:00 a.m. Fox Theatre 2111 Woodward Detroit Kids learn lessons about sharing, diversity and acceptance in this colorful live show.

Wild Winter Carnival 02/11/06–02/12/06, 3 p.m. Detroit Zoo Woodward and 10 Mile Road Royal Oak Winter fun for the children with face painting, carnival

games, and music at the Detroit Zoo.

call: 313.516.6406 or 888.897.8209.

African American Family Day

15th Annual America Online Presents the NFL Experience at Super Bowl XL

2/11/06, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Detroit Historical Museum This free event kicks off the Museum’s observance of Black History Month. African American Family Day 2006 will feature a full day of entertaining workshops and programs for the whole family to enjoy, featuring local musical artists, poetry, crafts, a fashion show, vendors and refreshments.

NFL Parties and Events, Socials, Fundraisers, Wine Tastings, etc. SUPER COMEDY WEEK 1/30/06–02/06/06 Detroit—various locations Web site: www. SuperComedyWeek.com SUPER COMEDY WEEK will feature the talents of some of the HOTTEST comedians from across the country. To buy tickets or for more information

02/01/06–02/05/06 Cobo Center Downtown Detroit Cost: $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12. Tickets are available by calling (866) TIX-4NFL (849-4635) or online at Ticketmaster. The NFL Experience offers something for everyone— skill competitions, interactive exhibits, autograph sessions, the Topps Super Bowl XL Card Show, youth clinics and the Foot Locker/Champs NFL Team. Shop.

Legendary Night hosted by Magic Johnson 02/01/2005, 7 p.m. The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History 315 E. Warren Detroit Cost: $200 Purchase online @ www.maah-detroit.org.

Kickoff with the Motini Gala 02/02/06, 7 p.m. Hoop City Grill 25333 W. 12 Mile Road Southfield For tickets call 1.800.961.4903 or visit www.ticketannex.com Presented by Ciroc—an evening of film, cocktails and high society. Proceeds benefit Jackets for Jobs (501c3).

Motown Winter Blast 02/02/06–02/05/06 Campus Martius and Greektown Downtown Detroit Festive celebration with snowshoeing, ice skating, ModelT rides, a 200-foot-long snow slide, ice sculptures, dog sledding and the best local music and restaurants in Metro Detroit.

The 7th Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration 02/03/06, 7:45 p.m.–10:30 p.m. Masonic Temple of Detroit 500 Temple Avenue Detroit Cost: $45–$75 per person Featuring Patti Labelle, The Winans, Mary, Mary, The Clark Sisters and Hezekiah Walker.

Unplugged Super Bowl Party: Jamm Session

02/03/06, 6:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. Martin Luther King High School 3200 E. Lafayette Detroit Contact: Sharon Pugh-Dumas, 313-331-4929 Cost: $20/adult, $10/children/ seniors

02/03/06, 8:00 p.m. Clutch Cargo’s 65 E Huron Street Pontiac $45 General Admission, $100 VIP

Full and Fabulous Inc. invites you to join them as they provide education and support about nutrition, fitness and positive lifestyles. Enjoy workshops, fashion shows and shopping with the vendors.

The 1st Annual “Runners of the Game” 02/03/06, 9 p.m.–2 a.m. The New Detroit Science Center 5020 John R Street Detroit General Admission: $100; tickets include open bar. VIP Admission: $200; tickets include open bar and strolling hors d’oeuvres. Buy tickets: www.ticketannex.com Hosted by Edgerrin James of the Indianapolis Colts, Clinton Portis of the Washington Redskins and Willis McGahee of the Buffalo Bills, will pay tribute to the past and present running backs of the NFL and Super Bowl XL and present this year’s Annual Runners of the Game Achievement Award to Barry Sanders. An evening of music, food and mingling. Special guest DJ, Biz Markie.

Diddy’s “Cashmere Luxe” 02/03/06, 8:00 p.m. Elysium Lounge 625 Shelby Detroit Party in style with the legendary rapper-socialite Diddy.

Friday Night Jamm Session and Party hosted by: John Legend and The Fugees’ Wyclef and Pras. Featuring Slum Village and more.

Barden’s Big Game Weekend Friday Kickoff 02/03/06, 8:00 p.m. Music Hall Center 350 Madison Detroit Admission: $55–$100 Featuring The Ohio Players, Dennis Edwards, Temptations and Chaka Khan

Unplugged Super Bowl Weekend: The Evening of Magic, Fashion and Passion 02/04/06, 8:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m. Clutch Cargo’s 65 E Huron St Pontiac Hosted by Magic Johnson. Jam. Session and Celebrity DJ, Biz Markie.

Super Comedy Show II and Super Comedy Wrap Party 02/04/06, 8:00 p.m. The Majestic Theatre 4120 Woodward Detroit More info: www. supercomedyweek.com Hottest comedy showcase, also featuring celebrity host Doug E. Fresh

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

The Grapevine Film Series: Exclusive African American Screenings

The Health Beauty and Self Esteem Expo

Celebrity fundraising event will benefit the CHW African American History Museum. Entertainment by Patrice Rushen, Howard Hewitt and more. Catered by Seldom Blues and Sweet Georgia Brown. For additional information contact: Candor Marketing Group at 248362-7366 ext. 237

Taste of the NFL

8th Annual NFL Players Gala

02/04/06, 7:00–9:30 p.m. Rock Financial Showplace 46100 Grand River Novi

02/05/06, 9:00 p.m. Elysium Lounge 625 Shelby Detroit Tickets: $150 @ ticketmaster.com

Taste of the NFL is a premier food- and wine-tasting extravaganza. A top chef representing each of the 31 NFL cities is paired with an alumnus or current player from each team.

The Gucci Party 02/04/06, 8:00 p.m. Posh Entertainment 22061 Woodward Ferndale Tickets: Ticketmaster.com

Boxing: Ronald “McCobra” Hearns and Thomas “Hitman” Hearns

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

02/04/06, 7:00 p.m. Palace of Auburn Hills Lapeer Road Auburn Hills Floor level seating $100–$150 Club level seating $25–$50

Gridiron Celebrity Hoops— NFL Players and Celebrities 02/04/06, 6:30 p.m. University of Detroit-Mercy, Calihan Hall 4001 West McNichols Detroit $20–$30 Tickets: Ticketmaster.com

Unplugged Super Bowl Weekend: Post-Game Party 02/05/06, 8:00 p.m. Clutch Cargo’s 65 E Huron St Pontiac Tickets: Ticketmaster.com The biggest post-game Super Bowl party featuring ultra celebrity guests

In Concert and Theater Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Bash

The Real Playaz Ball: The History Of Sex, Rock And Sports

02/02/2006, 6:30 p.m. State Theatre 2115 Woodward Detroit

02/05/06, 7:00 p.m. Posh Entertainment 22061 Woodward Ave Ferndale

Featuring the controversial and megastar hip hop artist Kanye West and star rock band Nickelback.

Super Bowl XL

Holy Hip Hop XL Concert

02/05/06 Ford Field Detroit The greatly anticipated and hugest event of the season, The Super Bowl XL! Howie Bell’s Gospel Comedy Brunch 02/05/06, 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. The Upper Room 23821 Grand River Detroit Contact: Aiyana Hamilton, 734.717.6444 Gospel Comedy Brunch at the Upper Room Christian Entertainment complex. Featuring Christian comics from across the country.

02/04/06, 7:00 p.m. International Institute 111 East Kirby Detroit Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the door Christian hip hop gets live with Mahogany Jones, Mad Prophets, and God’s Army.

Smokey Robinson 02/04/06, 8:00 p.m. Music Hall Center 350 Madison Cost: $55–$100 Classical crooner Smokey Robinson in concert.

Ludacris 02/09/06, 8:00 p.m. Rose Arena Central Michigan University Mount Pleasant Tickets: Ticketmaster.com

Donna D Jewelry presents Pre-Valentine’s Day Shop and Sip

Luda is back bringing his Southern fried romps and hip hop to the stage.

02/10/06, 4:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. 201 Iron Street Detroit Contact: 313-962-9233

New Jack Tour

Fine Detroit jeweler Donna D. sets the mood for love with a beautiful showcase of her jewelry. Shop and feel sensational.

02/10/06, 7:30 p.m. Detroit Opera House 1526 Broadway Detroit

The Detroit Public Library’s E. Azalia Hackley Collection presents:Master Keys06, 7:00 p.m.

Wednesdays

Detroit Public Library Main Friends Auditorium, Level A 5201 Woodward Detroit

3919 Woodward Detroit Time: 8:00 p.m. Admission: $5 Trenchtown, famous for its afterhours reggae, is now serving up poetry on Wednesday nights with local poet Q. Black as your host.

Featuring smooth crooner Will Downing and Friends.

Master musician Marcus Belgrave leads an ensemble cast including Johnny Allen, Johnny O’Neil and Roland Hamilton as they pay musical tribute to trailblazing Detroit jazz legends Tommy Flanagan, Teddy Harris Jr. and Harold McKinney. Tickets are $25 and must be bought in advance. Call 313-833-4048 to buy tickets and visit www.thehackley.org to learn more about the E. Azalia Hackley Collection for Blacks in Performing Arts.

Temptations Review

Poetry

02/10/06, 7:30 p.m. Greater Grace Temple 23500 West Seven Mile Road Detroit Gospel siren Yolanda Adams in concert at Greater Grace Temple!

A Valentine’s Affair 02/12/06, 7:00 p.m. Detroit Opera House 1526 Broadway Detroit

02/17–02/18/06, 8:00 p.m. Andiamo Celebrity Showroom 7096 East 14 Mile Road Warren

Tuesdays

Featuring the soulful Dennis Edwards.

1500 Woodward Detroit Lounge Time: 9:00 p.m. Admission: $5

Soweto Gospel Choir 02/19/06, 4:00 p.m. Hill Auditorium 825 North University Avenue Ann Arbor Cost: $10–$38 Ticket info: 734-764-2538 Share the joy and faith of Africaninfluenced gospel music with the acclaimed Soweto Gospel Choir.

Comerica Java and Jazz 02/21/06, 7:00 p.m. Detroit Public Library Main, 1st Floor 5201 Woodward Detroit Admission: Free Featuring jazz violinist Jerald Daemyon and poet Traci Curry .

NEW: Poetry at The Apartment

Raw poetic spit, open politick, and energizing vibes at The Apartment, with the charismatic Knowledge Born Truth Allah as your host.

NEW: Byte This Beans & Bytes Café 4200 Woodward Detroit Time: 8:00 p.m. Admission: $5 A vibrant and cozy cybercafé with an inviting come-gather-round feel to its weekly poetry set. The official Detroit poetry.com venue with Black Barbie as your host. Spins by DJ Increduble.

NEW: Poetry at Club Status Quo 2281 West Fort Street (near old Tiger Stadium) Detroit Time: 9:00 p.m. Admission: $5 Real poetry for real people at the plush Status Quo with the fabulous KimArie and wordsmith Mental.

Pitch Black Poetry

65 Farrand Park Highland Park Time: 7:00 p.m. Admission: Drop a donation. The center of the universe every Wednesday with Owusu (Millard) and Ivy Porter as your hosts at the Pitch Black Cultural Arts Institute.

Thursdays Mahogany Nights at Magnolia Restaurant and Key Club (formerly East Franklin Restaurant) 1440 East Franklin Detroit Time: 8 p.m.–midnight Admission: $5 Come mingle with the beautiful people over cigars and a glass of wine while enjoying the featured jazz band and a variety of poets.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

Yolanda Adams

The Flow at Club Trenchtown

Featuring Blackstreet, Tony! Toni! Tone!, Teddy Riley (King of New Jack Swing), Guy, After 7. The Detroit Opera House will explode with this hot lineup of favorite new jack swing era stars.

SpecialS for 2006! exclusively for fuzion Magazine readers The Best cruise prices in Town and free Upgrades

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Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

Honeymoon registry 4 stars • Book by May 1, 2006 for travel August 1–12, 2006 • We Book Destination Weddings

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caribbean • Bahamas and St. Thomas • 7 Nights From $995 Not finding what you’re looking for? Caribbean Travel has vacation options to suit every budget and lifestyle. Choose from the following popular destinations, • Cancun • Jamaica • Caribbean • Las Vegas • Central America • Mexico • Cruising • Orlando • Europe • South Pacific • Hawaii • United States or check out other options at www.caribbeantravelinc.com. To talk to one of our specialists right away and ask about our TripA-Way payment plan, call 313-273-7648.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

NEW: Tongue Poetry Centerstage 536 North Perry Street Pontiac The Pontiac poetry scene springs to life with this venue that features acclaimed spoken-word artists weekly.

Fridays The Meetery Eatery 5408 Woodward at East Kirby (In The Park Shelton) Detroit Time: 8 p.m. Admission: $5

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

The Meetery Eatery is a warm and brilliantly decorative spot featuring an Internet café and a menu ranging from rib snacks to corned beef sandwiches on Avalon bread and smoothies. Hosted by the vivacious Loc Mama, Kalimah Johnson, and charming Johnny Jenkins, this

Southeast Michigan

poetry set is guaranteed to please all types of people.

Got something to sell?

NEW: The Element

• Cars

35 Grand River (between Griswold and Woodward) Detroit Time: 8 p.m. Admission: $5

• Furniture

Hosted by Lashon Blackwell, the Element is a pure poetry experience in aesthetically pleasing, eye-catching surroundings. In the midst of all these festivities, the greatest celebration is that of love. One day and one month cannot contain the infinite nature of love or the greatness of a people. Be sure to enjoy your friends and family every day of the year. Celebrate your existence, your heritage, your pride—today and everyday! Until next time, Peace, Legacy Leonard

• Baby clothing • Musical instruments • Housing for sale or rent • Jewelry

CLASSIFIEDS are coming to Fuzion Contact us for ad rates and deadlines. 313 . 416 . 2293 ads@fuzionm a g . c o m Chantay “Legacy” Leonard is a Detroit based writer, performance poet, community activist and originator of the e-newsletter “The BlackSphere.” Please feel free to contact her at legacy@Fuzion-Mag.com. To include your event in “The Black Sphere,” please email details to Legacy or to info@ Fuzion-Mag.com.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

Welcome to Detroit

World Traveler Sanya Westin

Tour Detroit The best Detroit has to offer! Bed and Breakfast

inter is upon us and as you look for a way out, don’t overlook the beauty of our town. While Detroit may not be the place that comes to mind when you are looking to escape, keep in mind that Detroit and its surrounding cities are among the most visited areas in the winter months. When we only focus on the hustle and bustle of this city we might not see its slower-paced oases of calm.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

If you were to stage a visit to Detroit you would have to start with its enchanting history. If you are looking for a private getaway in a quaint bed and breakfast, we have it. If you are looking to take the family away in the middle of January and enjoy both the snow and an indoor summer experience, you can. If you are looking for a weekend of combined X Games-style skiing and outdoor hot tubbing, you are in the right place. Yes, Detroit has it going on! As we tour Detroit, enlighten and indulge yourself. On your next trip enjoy the treasures Detroit has to offer, and tell a friend. The idea of being a part of history is just the beginning of the breathtaking experience in Detroit’s many bed and breakfasts. From personal treatment to gorgeous decors, you will feel like royalty. This time, let’s look first at three of Detroit’s most engaging bed and breakfasts, close to downtown.

234 Winder Street Inn 234 Winder Street Detroit, MI 48201 234 Winder Street Inn is within minutes of the Fox Theatre, Michigan Opera House, Music Hall, Hart Plaza, Joe Louis Arena, Cobo Hall, the historical Greektown district, Renaissance Center and the Windsor-Detroit Tunnel. Enjoy the weekend in this charming, historical, completely renovated mansion, across the street from Comerica Park and Ford Field (the home of the Detroit Lions and the 2006 NFL Super Bowl).

Inn on Ferry Street 84 East Ferry Detroit, MI 48202 This new inn is really four restored Queen Anne mansions and two carriage houses located on one of Detroit’s most gracious and historic streets. Forty-two guest rooms and suites offer individual heating, air conditioning, computer dataports and voicemail phones. A Continental breakfast features waffles and baked goods from Detroit’s celebrated Avalon Bakery. The Inn is located just steps from the Detroit Institute of Arts/Cultural Center and Wayne State University. The Inn at 97 Winder Elegance, Excellence, Proximity... 97 Winder Street Detroit, MI 48201 In the heart of Detroit and just 20 minutes from Detroit’s Metro Airport is The Inn at 97 Winder, a peaceful urban sanctuary for the guest who expects the very best. Enjoy old-world European elegance in one of the largest remaining 1870s Victorian mansions in Detroit. Guests will discover works of art, antique flourishes and inspired cuisine. Business guests will also enjoy the amenities of the Inn’s business center. The Inn at 97 Winder is located only two blocks from Comerica Park, three blocks from Ford Field and minutes from other Detroit attractions. Next issue: Family fun ski resorts t For special rates for Fuzion readers on these or other Detroit-area destinations call Caribbean Travel of Detroit at 313.273.7648 www.caribbeantravelinc.com

Wellness 101 Herman Glass, D.C.

We are well aware that high-fat, highcarbohydrate meals raise our cholesterol levels and send our blood sugar rates soaring. That puts us at greater risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. But now nutritionists are aware there is a third danger: inflammation of the blood vessels, which causes soft-tissue damage to your joints. Our body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body weight relative to height. A person with a BMI of 30 or more is considered obese–and at a higher risk

The Kilpatricks, Detroit’s First Family—continued from page

revenue. This means we are losing all of the spin off economics that could be generated right here!” So what can be done? “We are looking at how we can get that back. I think that there may be some federal legislation on residency as well, and of course we are looking at tax incentives to encourage people to want to stay and move back to the city.” On a lighter note, we are entering into a new year, so I asked what were their personal expectations. “As for the new year we’re losing weight together. Oh yeah, we’re doing all that. We’re about to do a nice little get-in-shape thing! We both used to be in real good shape. When we were in college we used to be in real good shape,” says the mayor. “I had babies, I’m not thinking about college,” the first lady adds. “But we saw ‘The Biggest Loser’ last night,” laughs the mayor. “I am not thinking about when I was 21 in college, because now I’m 35 with three kids,” she says. “Well I’m going for the 21-year-old, “all that body!” And to the city of Detroit, “Look for a unified, proud, self-determined Detroit in 2006.” t

A solution for healthy wellness and disease prevention is Suddenly SLIM! Suddenly SLIM! by First Fitness is a powerful combination of three specially formulated, all-natural herbal products—and an easy-to-follow eating program. Developed in collaboration with medical doctors and scientists—and based on up-to-theminute research—Suddenly Slim! helps reprogram your body to burn fat more efficiently, diminish hunger and help reduce overeating. t For additional information, email Dr. Glass at drglassii@sbcglobal.net, call him at 313-533-BACK (313-533-2225) or visit his office at Glass Chiropractic Health Plaza, 17301 West Eight Mile Road, Detroit, Michigan 48235.

Why This Father Got MADD—continued from page 14

corner. Twenty-one is the legal age for purchasing alcohol, period,” says Birch. MADD’s stated mission is to support victims of drunk drivers, prevent underage drinking and to stop drunken driving. This applies all types of motor vehicles, including boats and motorcycles, as well as automobiles. Super Bowl Sunday is only a few days away, and whether you are partying in downtown Detroit, elsewhere in the metro area, or at home with family and friends, MADD suggests the following: M Urge party hosts to be responsible by offering a variety of non-

alcoholic beverages for designated drivers. M Never serve alcohol to those under the legal drinking age of

21. M Ask guests to appoint a designated driver before the evening

begins. M Do not allow guests to mix their own drinks. M Never allow guests who have had too much to drink to get

behind the wheel.

According to MADD’s Web site (madd.org), it has some 600 offices and 2 million members and supporters nationwide. Since its inception in 1980, it has helped to save more than 300,000 lives. To find out more about MADD’s programs and initiatives or to volunteer, contact the Wayne County office at 313-881-8181. For immediate assistance, 877-MADDHELP (1-877-623-34357) is the 24 hour helpline that will direct you to a local chapter. t

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

More than ever before our increase in eating comes primarily in the form of carbohydrates. Sugars and starches have become the staple of the American diet. The food pyramid guidelines told Americans to avoid fat and eat grains, but the grains we are eating are flour-based items; pasta, tortillas and hamburger buns, which have

little more nutritional value than table sugar. So, we loaded up on pasta and bread, causing the low-fat message to backfire. We are eating more vegetables, as e the USDA’s Food Guide Pyramid instructed in 1992. The only problem is almost a third of these vegetables were iceberg lettuce, French fries and potato chips, again low nutritional value.

s Americans we enjoy one of ithe most luxurious lifestyles on iearth—and it’s killing us. Why? Because our food is plentiful, our work is automated and our leisure is effortless. This lifestyle has caused many Americans to become overweight. We’re fat not only because we eat a lot, but also because we eat the wrong things. Adult women are now eating 335 more calories per day than they did in 1971. Adult men have increased their daily intake by 168 calories. We each ate 1,775 pounds of food in 2000, up from 1,497 pounds in 1790.

of disease such as diabetes, stroke, osteoarthritis, heart attack and some forms of cancer. Obesity-related diseases cost the Unites States more than $100 billion annually. In 2006, being overweight is predicted to surpass smoking as the leading cause of preventable death in the country.

Tavis Smiley’s Conference Maps Roads to Success By Gwen Thomas

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

or the last 17 years, I have been an entrepreneur focusing on providing ethnic marketing services to Fortune 500 companies. The ethnic market used to be the African-American and the Hispanic populations. Today it also includes the growing Asian market. My years of experience in urban radio, at Johnson Publishing—of Jet and Ebony magazines—and Soft Sheen, Inc., taught me some valuable lessons in urban and ethnic marketing. Fortunately, this was way before ethnic marketing was popular in mainstream America or even before the masses of African Americans actually knew what was happening with black consumerism. Twenty or so years ago, the masses knew nothing about the buying power of African Americans or much about what many of us were trying to do with mainstream retail and advertising.

White America didn’t get it. But they soon began to do the math, and realized that African Americans represented consumer populations that could make a significant impact on any company’s bottom line. In October, I attended a conference created by Tavis Smiley, popular radio/television host and social activist. It was a branding and wealth-building conference in Chicago called SuccesSoul. The two-day conference was designed to motivate, inspire, and give attendees the tools, marketing strategies and secrets to help them build and brand their businesses, market their product or services and develop a strategy for the future. The conference was aimed at letting attendees share their soul without selling their soul.

Attendees had the distinct opportunities to listen to motivational speakers, top brand masters and financial experts on the importance of branding of new products, the actual branding of entrepreneurs, corporations and small businesses. The conference was designed to help attendees maximize opportunities for success while learning marketing secrets from inspirational brand masters. I have attended many conferences and listened to many celebrities, but SuccesSoul was quite different. For the first time in my life I had the opportunity to listen to several people who actually had the same skin color as mine and who openly shared their success stories. What made SuccesSoul unique was that the speakers talked about the many rejections they received before they finally got to the resounding “Yes,” which put them on the path to becoming successful. Now, in our own right, many of us are successful, but we have been awaiting the extreme nod from the higher power. It is not often that people will give you a recipe for success. As the years have flown by for me, I no longer need to be the pioneer. I have pioneered the promotions industry in the African-American market, across the country. But now, I do not want to re-invent the wheel and I know that blessings will flow as result of my key learnings

and my teachings, if I remain faithful and focused. Tavis Smiley says there are two ways to live your life: M Living it with your dreams and con-

victions. M Living it with plenty of excuses as to

why you can’t live your life and live out your dreams.

At SuccesSoul, entrepreneurs such as Earvin “Magic” Johnson, poet/author Maya Angelou, financial expert Suze Orman, author/lifestyle coach Iyanla Vanzant, U.S. Senator Barack Obama, “fly jock” Tom Joyner, and restaurateur/lifestyle expert B. Smith joined Tavis Smiley at the SuccesSoul conference and presented some thought-provoking ideas and recipes. These presenters shared considerable knowledge of business and finance relating to their industries, along with their personal success stories. One of the things that I want to reiterate is that information is power. When you get a vision, move on it—don’t be frozen by your fears. For so many people don’t believe that they can achieve greatness. Instead, they have to learn to let go and let loose. Andrew Morrison, author of “21 Questions That Will Build Your Business in 90 Days” makes the following recommenda-

are your unique talents and gifts? If you had only three years to live, what would you want to spend you time doing in your career? M I suggest that you even do a survey of a few friends or colleagues asking them what they think your strengths are. M Determine how a business supports your calling. M Practice mental rehearsals. Find people who have gone ahead of you. Sometimes they are pioneers in their business or industry. Talk to them and study them; ask them to mentor you. Don’t get stuck believing that you need permission to succeed. The real issue is that you must talk about your dreams. But remember to pause before you talk so you communicate a clear thought process. Rehearse what you want your success to look like. Do what others do. You are witnessing when this happens.

Andrew Morrison built a multi-milliondollar company by providing innovative marketing services to Fortune 500 companies. He has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Crain’s, Ad Age and on CNN and Oprah. Tavis talked about the importance of diversification as a smart wealth-building strategy, which included creating multiple revenue streams, allowing you to provide complementary services and create opportunities for new business ventures. For example, B. Smith, a top model of the 1970s, today has built a lifestyle brand. She is well-known for her television show, “B. Smith With Style,” her restaurants, her

Rev. Jackson also could not talk about John Johnson without talking about Berry Gordy, who failed several times as

he searched for his niche. Berry always knew he could go home, and this time borrowed $800 from his family to launch Motown Records, using the principles of auto manufacturing. Rev. Jackson reminded us that “We get our stars from our scars. You can’t make a touchdown from the bench. You have to be prepared and determine your motivation before you get started. You have to have a core anchor. Even if you are peerless, don’t give up. If you do your best, God will do the rest.” Tavis said, “Failing does not make you a failure.” My favorite analogy is to always think in terms of vertical integration, a term that I learned in grad school, nearly 10 years ago. It’s the pinnacle of so many business cases. The process starts with one thing that can grow into other opportunities. One thing done moves to the next and you are on your way. Tavis reminds us to continue to “Dream big and stay committed, and never mind the haters. It’s not how many times you get knocked down but it’s how many times you can get up.” Today, I’m at the end of an era. I have started a new venture called Gwen Thomas Consulting, where I will continue the marketing but have added my latest venture—public speaking and providing training on small business development. It’s time to play it forward, teach and gracefully pass the baton. t

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

M Determine what your calling is. What

cookbooks, her own line of houseware and her jewelry. B. Smith advises that you should be ready to deal with the racism. Being black, she says, you have to be twice as good for half as much. Other conference topics included how to create an identity that stands out among the big boys, presented by LisaFortini-Campbell, Ph.D., adjunct professor of management at the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University. Campbell is known for helping clients who have been in business for 20 years or 20 days. A most fitting tribute to the late John H. Johnson was made by the Rev. Jesse Jackson. Tavis and the Rev. Jackson talked about how “Mr. J,” as so many affectionately called him, helped shape the images of African Americans. Most folks knew that he borrowed $500 from his mother to start the magazine. But he had to first sell his mother, his first investor, on a good idea. Rev. Jackson indicated that that many people did not know that he was an avid reader or that the subscriptions to Ebony and Jet magazine were the first and original market research on African-American households. John H. Johnson took a risk when he started his magazines. When Ebony and Jet came into our households we saw images of successful blacks that we began to know. Rev. Jackson talked about some things that many people did not know about John Johnson. He was not afraid to show America images of blacks. Rev. Jackson indicated that in 1964, Ebony and Jet became teaching instruments that gave us some imagery of ourselves. And Jackson could not talk about John Johnson without talking about the late mother of the Civil Rights movement. “Rosa Parks was a freedom fighter … she did not start the day. She refused to get off the bus, but, according to Rosa, she thought about the photo of Emmett Till in Jet and she couldn’t go back, she couldn’t get off the bus. She took a risk. She knew that she would lose her job and suffer other consequences.”

tions for those who need to take action now and begin their process of moving their life and business to a higher level.

The Book Beat Roy Kyles

The People Next Door

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

ust before the first chapter, author Bettye Griffin offers a quote by Delia Ephron that reads: “Your basic extended family today includes your ex-husband or wife, your ex’s new mate, your new mate, possibly your new mate’s ex and any new mate that your new mate’s ex has acquired.” If this statement seems a bit confusing, it won’t be after reading The People Next Door. Griffin’s eighth novel details the lives of two families linked together by divorce, marriage and children. After a frustrating and tiring search, Darrell and Lisa Canfield have finally found the perfect location to build their dream home. Besides the beautiful surroundings of an upscale cul-de-sac enclosed on three sides by the St. Johns River, it was closer to their jobs and big enough for the whole family including Darrell’s mother. Everything seems to be fine until the Canfields find out that the Betancourts have purchased the house next door. What makes this story interesting is that the Betancourts are not just any new neighbors. Brad is Lisa’s ex-husband and Suzanne is his scheming wife. And now, what seemed to be a perfect situation has turned into a nightmare. The People Next Door turns out to be a modern day page turning that breaks down today’s extended family life. As Lisa deals with her unresolved anger and resentment towards her ex-husband’s new wife, she must also keep an eye out for the tension that is brewing in her own home between her daughter Paige (who is also Brad’s child) and her stepdaughter Devon from Darrell first marriage. But Lisa isn’t the only one who has issues. Suzanne must come to terms with her own self-esteem. And now that Paige and her family are living next door, the perfect little world that she has made for herself is now in jeopardy. To top it off, they all have to deal with a couple of nosey neighbors who sort of invite themselves into all of their lives.

With characters that have depth and a storyline that we all can relate to, Griffin has crafted an excellent account of what many families today are dealing with on a constant basis. The People Next Door comes to an end around the holiday season and since we are in the middle of our own celebrations with family and friends, I’d like to offer you a challenge. Go out and pick up this book. See which one of the characters reflect members of your own families. Better yet, use the discussion questions in the back of the book to start a positive dialogue about your own family and how you deal with extended family life issues. As the saying goes, “If there is strife and contention in the home, very little else can compensate for it.” The People Next Door, Bettye Griffin. Kensington Publishing. ISBN 0-7582-0737-9. t Roy Kyles is a native Detroiter and freelance book reviewer. His reviews have appeared both locally and nationally. Kyles is currently writing his first novel. To have your book reviewed, feel free to email him at Rkyles@fuzion-mag.com.

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Mitchell’s journey began at Florida A and M University in Tallahassee, where she earned a degree in psychology. However, while in grad school she also took classes in cosmetology, seeking a trade on the side to earn money for tuition. Mitchell thanks Carmen McCloud, a Tallahassee salon owner, for inspiring her to venture into beauty. “She took me to my first really big beauty show, with all the glitz and glamour, and I said, ‘This is it—this is what I want to do!’” says Mitchell. After graduation, Mitchell returned to her native Detroit and pursued her cosmetology career as a hairstylist, working at several local salons: Megan Mitchell, Salon Jacqueline, and LaPierce. During this interim stage she discovered that she would much rather explore makeup artistry than hairstyling. So, in an effort to get the ball rolling, Mitchell freelanced and worked with several cosmetic lines including M.A.C., Prescriptives and Sephora. This eased her transition as she started receiving a stream of referral business from her freelancing positions, which moved her clientele from the dressing rooms of churches for local brides, to the back stage of Broadway shows, and on to major Hollywood movie sets.

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In addition to makeup, one of the newest and most requested services is her eyelash extensions. “Xtreme Lashes are a revolutionary new product that will extend your eyelashes for a beautiful and natural look,” says Mitchell, who was recently featured on Fox 2’s weekend show. Brandi Mitchell also offers makeup courses as well as individual and corporate image consulting.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

Some of Mitchell’s celebrity clientele are Eva Pigford, from “America’s Next Top Model,” actor-comedian Wayne Brady, Wesley Jonathan, from “Roll Bounce” and New Edition’s Michael Bivens.

Power 2 Our People By Kenneth L. Harris

Taking Charge of Your Economic Destiny

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

oday, we consistently fight against our innate abilities to achieve economic wealth, mainly based on 200 years of slavery. Some continue to operate with a slave mentality when it comes to business, never reaching their full value and worth as citizens in a capitalistic society. Since 1619, when the first Afrikans arrived in Jamestown, Virginia, as indentured servants, economic empowerment has been buried beneath the ashes of a denigrated culture and society. But the time has come for African Americans to take control of our economic destiny. We as black folks occasionally talk about the disparities between African Americans and whites, but the discussion needs to not only focus on the aforementioned subject, but also the serious disparities between the black “haves” vs. the black “have nots” or the Black Bourgeoisie vs. the Black Social Entrepreneur. These two distinct worlds have a parallel effect within the black community in a negative fashion. As a solution to these two parallel societies, one can make an honest assessment about the uneducated Negro and the educated African American. In some ways, the assessment acknowledges that only until we are able to educate ourselves as seasoned professionals through business, can we truly experience the stabilizing independence of a successful social entrepreneur within a capitalistic nation and global economy. Yes, we as black folks have come a long way. But have we really? Do we honestly, as a black community with an 82 percent majority population have access to capital? Do we honestly have black think tanks that produce systematic and strategic mechanisms for economic empowerment? Do we honestly leverage the more than 41,000-plus African American businesses in the state of Michigan for economic gain? Is there truly a networking resource available to those who are economically challenged to help them acquire knowledge, resources and venture capital to help realize dreams for economic solidarity? Why can’t Detroit become the next “Black Wall Street” following in the footsteps of Tulsa, Oklahoma—better known as “Deep Greenwood”—referred to by many as the “Negro Wall Street” in 1921?

To answer these remote questions, we must first unite the “haves” and “have nots” or the Black Bourgeoisie and the Black Social Entrepreneur. Only after we unite on a common economic playing field can we then galvanize black business toward strategic think tanks, access to venture capital and economic prosperity. The slave mentality has separated most African Americans economically, socially, spiritually and politically from their inclusion into this great nation blacks helped to build, but it is also critical that black folks begin to mobilize for economic solidarity. The effects of the civil rights movement, Brown vs. Board of Education, and affirmative action contribute to black America from a noneconomic liberal standpoint, all beneficial, but now we must propel the 21st century movement of economic empowerment toward the distribution of wealth and power in the black community. The economic ideologies of Black Nationalism, such as those of Marcus Garvey and Booket T. Washington, help set the stage for the economic potential of African Americans, leveraged to ensure our stabilizing independence within this country. It is time for the lip service of the established black elite or black bourgeoisie in the black community to put their money where their mouths are and invest in black businesses and capitalistic ventures. There is an exciting young black America waiting in line for an opened door, but because they have not the resources to realize their dreams, they must continue to beg those who have for a chance. We must come together wise and young, educated and disadvantaged, rich and poor to solve a problem that will not get any better unless we unite as one and as a community. The time is now, but it is up to us as black businessmen and -women to help facilitate economic self-control and ownership of America and the true so-called American dream. Black folks, your economic destiny is calling! What are we going to do about the call? t For more information, contact Kenneth L. Harris at kharris@DetroitBlackExpo.com or visit www.DetroitBlackExpo.com.

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Sunset Assisted Living “Your Senior Years Should Be Your Best Years”

new place of serenity is available for seniors. As owner Leslie Pugh says, her vision goes back to 2003 when her grandmother was moved to a nursing home. For the six months her grandmother lived there, Pugh and her family alternated days and times to visit and have meals with her. Since then, Pugh had missed going to the nursing home, caring for her grandmother and visiting with her newfound friends. As a result, she decided to move out of her home and convert it into an assisted-living facility. Sunset Assisted Living sits on an acre of land studded with mature trees, perfect for sitting outdoors in the spring and summer. The facility covers 2,300 square feet with new hardwood floors throughout. The kitchen is brand-new with stainless-steel appliances. The décor is contemporary, designed for a warm and loving environment. The staff has been hand-picked to provide kind-hearted care and respect for the elderly, with a personal touch. Sunset Assisted Living provides morning and evening checks, breakfast, lunch, dinner, bathing assistance, dressing assistance, errand assistance, daily housekeeping, personal laundry and linen service, recreational, cultural and social activities. All utilities (except telephone) are provided—cable TV, computer and Internet access. Special services are adult day care and temporary lodging.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

Sunset Assisted Living is located at 28293 West Sunset Boulevard, one-half mile north of I-696, three blocks west of Southfield in Lathrup Village, Michigan, 48076. Call Leslie Pugh at 248-5699887.

On the Set With Gwen Thomas By Gwen Thomas

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

The 2005 Black Movie Awards

he 2005 Black Movie Awards were held in Los Angeles October 9 at the Wiltern Theater. It was a delightful evening that celebrated the outstanding artistic accomplishments of men and women of African descent in motion pictures. The event was hosted by Cedric the Entertainer, who I had the greatest pleasure working with on HBO’s “Kings and Queens of Comedy” in Atlanta several years ago. This was the largest comedy show ever produced. Cedric has starred in 12 films in the last seven years. You have to take your hat off to Suzanne de Passe and Jeff Friday as being visionaries in the entertainment industry. The Black Movie Awards were produced by these two power brokers. Tanji Henson of “Hustle and Flow,” Several years ago, I attended Gwen Thomas, Detroit entertainment the Acapulco Black Film Festival consultant, and Kimberly Elise of and the American Black Film “Diary of a Mad Black Woman” at festivals, created and produced the 2005 Black Movie Awards by Friday while he was president of UniWorld Films. He acquired it four years ago and renamed it Film Life Inc. Friday has been at the forefront of independent black films for many years, and has his finger on the pulse with new projects such as “The Gospel.” As for Suzanne de Passe, many folks know her as the one of the few young dynamic women behind the scenes, back in the day, of Motown Records while it was still owned by Berry Gordy. However, many are unaware of her numerous contributions to black television shows such as “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air,” “A Different World” and many others. She also produced many awards Gwen with friend Obba Babatunde shows, including several NAACP of “Half and Half” at the 2005 Black Image Awards, “Motown 25,” Movie Awards “Motown Returns to the Apollo” and co-wrote “Lady Sings the Blues.” Suzanne is the founder of de Passe Entertainment and has

been named by Variety magazine as one of the 50 most powerful black women in entertainment. Friday and de Passe make a great pair. They managed to put together a show that recognized the pioneers in the industry — black talent who stood up in the civil rights struggle, the African Americans who are today’s innovators behind the lenses, and the up-and-coming African-American talent whose powerful screen is only now developing. The stars came out to support the 2005 Movie Awards. In fact, this was the largest show since its launch nine years ago. This year’s honorees included Kimberly Elise, awarded the “Rising Star” honor. Elise has starred in the “Diary of a Mad Black Woman,” “John Q” and “The Manchurian Candidate.” After making her television debut in “In the House,” Elise made “Set it Off” and continued in such films as “The Ditchdigger’s Daughters” and “Beloved” in which she played opposite Oprah and Danny Glover, garnering her several awards. Elise has also done theater including “A Raisin in the Sun.” She has a star quality that has only just begun. In my many years, I have not seen a black actress who has captured me and drawn me into a film as Kimberly Elise has. In her acceptance speech, she delivered a profound message, challenging everyone to be more supportive of their fellow African American actors. Right behind Kimberly Elise is a big star in the making and her name is Taraji Henson. She is still fresh on the scene in Hollywood, but it was truly refreshing to know that she studied at a HBCU, Howard University. Despite being a single mom, she took a risk, followed her dream and moved to Hollywood. I took notice of her in her film, “Hustle and Flow, where she played Shug, Terrence Howard’s knocked up, innocent like, main hoer. Shug’s screen presence softened the movie, making it more realistic for women — for those women who will do anything for their men, whether he’s pimp with a stable or a song and a dream. Henson has had several appearances in television and is working on a two new films that should be out in the spring. Sidney Poitier and Ossie Davis will always stand in a class by themselves. I grew up watching Poitier in such classics as “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” and ‘They Call Me MISTER .Tibbs.” He had so many works and when he began directing in the early 1970s, I could never get enough. My favorite

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

Gwen Thomas is president of Promotions Unlimited 2000, Inc., a promotional marketing and talent agency and Gwen Thomas Consulting, Inc., small business coaching and consultant services. Both businesses are located in Southfield, Michigan. You can email Gwen at gwen@promotionsunlimited.com.

was “A Warm December,” about a disease that was new to the black community called sickle-cell anemia. The film showed two young people who had fallen in love but were faced with death as a result .A standing ovation was given to Sidney Poitier when he accepted the “Distinguished Career” award. The late Ossie Davis received a tribute for his work in film. Davis made theater and film his life, never letting us forget the importance of the Harlem Renaissance and what it did for blacks in entertainment. He was an accomplished author, a civil rights activist and husband to the great actress Ruby Dee. I met them on a previous occasion and Gwen chats with record producer the spark between the Jimmy Jam at LA Party two of them would be the envy of any couple. “Hustle and Flow” produced several winners. Terrance Howard, received outstanding performance by an actor in a leading role . As outstanding actress in a leading role was Kimberly Elise. Anthony Anderson won as outstanding supporting actor, and Taraji Henson won as outstanding actress in a supporting role. Halle Berry, has added producer to her recent credits and won as outstanding television movie, “Lackawanna Blues”. Tyler Perry won as outstanding achievement in his writing of “Diary of a Mad Black Woman,” and the HBO director to watch for independent Gwen and Mekhi Phifer of “ER” at filmmakers is Rodney Evthe Reverend Jessie Jackson’s birthans. Outstanding direcday celebration tor was Thomas Carter in “Coach Carter.” Some other guests included Cicely Tyson, Quincy Jones, Loretta Devine, Blair Underwood, Tracie Ross, Laurence Fishburne, Zoe Saldana, Mekhi Phifer, Robert Townsend, Nia Long, Debbie Allen, Norm Nixon, Morgan Freeman, Sidney Poitier, Don Cheadle, Vivica Fox, Halle Berry , Ruby Dee, Terrence Howard and Anthony Anderson, to name a few. The party continued across town at the Roosevelt Hotel, where everyone kicked off their heels and dined on soul food and champagne. t

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This is what it’s all about WJLB’s Coco Ray J and Kat Williams Kirk Franklin WJLB’s Serch, Chingy and Erroll Service Ceelo WJLB’s Foolish WJLB’s Kris Kelly Ginuine WJLB’s Serch, Ceelo, Jazze Pha and Tone Tone Actor Terry Crews (Everybody Hates Chris”) and the John Conyers family Ashanti and her mom, Tina Y. Douglas

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The Fuzion Holiday Party

Angela Folson and Thomas Fuzion’s Orena Perry and Mike Ragland Sunset Assisted Living’s Leslie Pugh Fuzion’s John Coleman Fuzion’s Kimberly Bradfield Saul Bradfield 7. Fuzion’s Roy Kyles and Orena Perry 8. Randall Kennibrew and Jessie Kennedy 9. Fuzion staffers Roy Kyles, Pauline Averbach, Brenda Lewis, Coire Houston and Edward Foxworth III 10. Othel and Marinda Little with Sanya and Steve Westin 11. Fuzion staffers Jon Stewart, John Coleman, Orena Perry, Herman Houston, Coire Houston, Sanya Westin, Kimberly Bradfield, Mike 11 Michanik and Roy Kyles

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Fuzion staffers Coire Houston and the “Car Man,” Don Houston (no relation) in the WGPR studios 2. The Bartell brothers at the 2006 North American International Auto Show Charity Preview 3. Fuzion’s Orena Perry and Antwone Fisher 4. Style Maker of the Year Derrick Walker 5–8 Style Maker models 1.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com January/February 2006

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Tommy from the “Steve Harvey Morning Show” Steve Harvey and crew from the “Steve Harvey Morning Show” with Judge Craig Strong Judge Craig Strong and Steve Harvey Jacque Reid from the “Steve Harvey Morning Show”

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Antwone Fisher and wife, Alicia Woods Antwone and Georgee Club Icon’s LaRonn Harris Jeanetta Lambkin and Miss USA 2004, Stacey Lee Lashell and Lee Griffin Gerald Watson and Brian McKnight

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Detroit’s finest: the Shock and the Lions together Detroit Lion’s running back Kevin Jones Mark Anthony and Frank Taylor Former Detroit Lion Robert Porche and daughter WXYZ Channel 7’s Glenda Lewis Sinbad with artists Donald and Gina Calloway Sinbad with Kim Harris-Jones and Randi Payton WXYZ Channel 7’s Erik Smith and Carolyn Clifford Taylor Sinbad with Saba Gebrai WXYZ Channel 7’s Carolyn Clifford Taylor and husband, Frank

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