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Volume 76 – Number 47
WHAT’S INSIDE Support for community center (Page A-2) For a great number of years the Northwest Activities Center has been a popular meeting place for Detroiters. But like so many other institutions, it is having its share of financial challenges. However, the center will continue to thrive, thanks to the support of Mayor Dave Bing, the City of Detroit and the community.
Outrage continues over discarded books (Page A-3) Linda G. Wheeler, an educator and Highland Park resident, and others were stunned upon learning that 10,000 Blacvk history schoolbooks had been thrown out. Wheeler subsequently founded an activist organization called Citizens For Highland Park Public Schools.
For improved computer skills (Page B-1) By way of a combination of workshops and field trips, an organization calling itself Black Girl Code is working diligently to provide new skills in computer to girls. This will help prepare them for bright futures.
Architectural firm soars (Page C-1) Hamilton Anderson Associates, with Rainy Hamilton Jr. and Kent Anderson at the helm, has risen to become one of the nation’s most successful architectural firms. Examples of the company’s work can be seen all over Detroit and beyond.
Will: ‘Blame bankruptcy on unmarried mothers’ By Bankole Thompson CHRONICLE SENIOR EDITOR
George Will, the mega-conservative ideologue and ABC analyst who hosted President Obama at his house in 2009 for dinner attended by other conservative columnists, became the latest right wing intellectual parading as a self-appointed moralist to link Detroit’s gigantic financial problems on moral failure and collapse of the family system.
George Will
— right wing evangelicals in particular — because whenever these socalled leaders run out of any ideas or simply rational way of thinking, they play the “moral card”, as if we’ve not had a litany of major right wing evangelicals who have been exposed for serious moral failures as it relates to their sexual indiscretions and other activities they had earlier denounced in their ministries.
During a July 28 taping of ABC’s “This
See BANKRUPTCY page A-4
We Endorse Napoleon for Mayor
D
etroit is in the midst of an unprecedented municipal financial collapse. An $18 billion mountain of debt is a staggering number that is shocking for anyone who lives, works or is invested, in this great city. To continue to deny that we have a financial crisis is to live under a rock. Furthermore, city services in Detroit are nowhere close to the standard they should be and public safety has become the number one issue every Detroiter is concerned about.
moving the city forward. However, in our view, the issues that we face as a city require a mayor who is not only prepared in a professional sense, but also has a long history of involvement in this particular community. It demands of mayor who has the passion and empathy as well as the requisite professional background and experience to tackle issues that we will together confront as a city. Given where the city has been and where it is now, Detroit cannot afford a leader who does not bring this entire package to the office of mayor.
We have elected officials who simply have not done what they should have, long ago, when the opportunity was there to make government work. We are paying the price for that now. If our elected leaders had done what needed to be done, there would be no need now for an emergency manager or the state of bankruptcy that our city must endure.
Out of all the candidates, we believe Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon meets those criteria. He brings with him decades of commitment and service to Detroit and his love and passion for this city is undeniable. There are many reasons why we believe Napoleon should be the next mayor. But four reasons stand out. We urge voters to consider them as they head to the polls on August 6.
So, with these facts as a backdrop, we face an important question: Who should be Detroit’s next mayor? The primary campaign has seen a healthy offering of good candidates seeking to be the chief executive of Detroit. They have canvassed the length and breadth of this city, pounding every pavement speaking to the issues that matter to Detroiters.
Benny Napoleon on the leadership of a city that is in Chapter 9 bankruptcy is far beyond what we typically ask of our public leaders.
an interest in bringing needed change to our community. It is not an overestimation to say that Detroit voters have good choices among most of the candidates. Their backgrounds, experiences and passions are impressive and, for the most part, they are devoted to creating change and to
It is a blessing that so many good people have stepped forThe Michigan Chronicle has ward to offer their leadership. spoken to the candidates inWe know public service requires depth and we believe that all of sacrifice. And to offer to take the candidates have, at the core,
James Tate
Saunteel Jenkins
Brenda Jones
1. Familiar with Detroit’s Pain — Napoleon is a son of this city and has lived here all his life. His mother spoke movingly, on radio commercials, about the home she has lived in for six decades and why her son would make a great mayor. But beyond the tribute of a mother is the fact that Napoleon has dedicated his entire public service life
See NAPOLEON page A-4
Andre Spivey
Promise of new city council begins with these faces
One of the strongest components of our local government is the Detroit City Council. That is because of the crucial role this legislative body has played in the past and continues to play. Despite sometmes facing harsh criticism, it still has an important function in making government work for all of us. Because this is the first time in 100 years that Detroiters will be represented by districts, making government accountability the hallmark of this system of legislative government, it is important that those who would be elected are armed with the skills and knowledge to address the challenges the city faces. And those challenges are even greater now, in the era of an emergency manager and state of bankruptcy. But we believe that Detroit will move beyond this seemingly financial cataclysmic state and a new city council will be needed to
John Bennett
Scott Benson
LIVING
WELL
ng condition ing a debilitati Eras transplant surgery is safe and New research shows that skin effective for treating vitiligo
Care Take of Greater Detroit urge men BCBSM and the 100 Black Men gs
to step up healthcare screenin
Food? Food? Badchoices Good Swap out bad foods with better Great Outdoors! to Pass FreeGym initiative opensthe a Green GetMI Big up free access The to endless activities at area parks
$1.00
Bankole Thompson
But, of course, this narrative is so familiar among Republican Christian leaders
An amazing life and career (Page D-1) As the first Black Miss America, Vanessa Williams was assured a place in American and Black history. Near the end of her reign, she was sidetracked by a disaster, but she refused to give in. Instead, she became a major star, as recording artist, actress and dancer.
July 31 – August 6, 2013
michiganchronicle.com
not only maintain the order of business, but get our local government moving in a forward direction. After carefully looking at the backgrounds and experiences of all of the candidates we believe that the followingpass the test of leadership and are therefor capable of serving Detroit in this way. They should be given the opportunity by Detroit voters on Aug 6. to move on to the general election. District 1. James Tate: He has served on the Detroit City Council showing steady leadership and at times has been in the crosshairs of other members, but maintains the composure needed of our political leaders even in the face of adversity. Tate should return to the council to continue to serve Detroit and especially District 1.
See CITY
COUNCIL page A-4
Vince Keenan
Brian White
Leslie Love
LivingWELL
Look inside this week’s Magazine insert and discover what people are talking about. Erasing a debilitating condition Good Food? Bad Food? New research shows that skin transplant surgery is safe and effective for treating vitiligo
Swap out bad foods with better choices
Take Care
Get a Free Pass to the Great Outdoors!
BCBSM and the 100 Black Men of Greater Detroit urge men to step up healthcare screenings
The MI Big Green Gym initiative opens up free access to endless activities at area parks
news
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
Mayor Bing, recreation department support Northwest Activities Center By Alicia C. Minter A Detroit radio program suggested last week that the City of Detroit was neglecting the Northwest Activities Center and its workers. Program listeners were encouraged to call Mayor Dave Bing’s office to complain. That is exactly what they did, for nearly two hours one morning. However, most of the calls were unnecessary because people were responding to inaccurate information. As director of the Detroit Recreation Department, I’d like to share some information that will provide a better understanding of the status of the Northwest Activities Center. First of all, there was confusion last week surrounding a loss of electrical power that forced the center to close temporarily. That problem was corrected and the center was reopened. Addressing the broader issue, there is no doubt that the Northwest Activities Center, a historic and much-loved community meeting place at 18100 Meyers near Curtis, is facing financial challenges. The City of Detroit owns the building, which includes a health and fitness club with a gym, pool, sauna and exercise rooms. A 488-seat theater, large ballroom and meeting rooms are also part of the facility, which opened in 1976. However, an independent contractor, Northwest Community Programs Inc., manages and employs a staff to operate the Northwest Activities Center. In the past, the City of Detroit provided $800,000 in funding for the Center from the Recreation Department budget. However, due to drastic cuts in the Detroit Recreation Department’s budget and the total budget for the city, funding for the Northwest Activities Center was reduced in recent years and finally eliminated. There has been no city subsidy available for center operations during the past two fiscal years, beginning in July 2011.
Alicia C. Minter
Dave Bing
Yet, under Mayor Bing’s direction, the city has continued to support the Northwest Activities Center by paying for building maintenance and repairs and paying the center’s utilities bills. During the last fiscal year, which ended June 30, the city paid for approximately $100,000 in maintenance and repairs costs and approximately
Campaign, has attracted money and in-kind donations to promote activities and capital improvements at recreation centers and parks. Another program proposed by the mayor calls for the creation of an independent Recreation Authority that would provide strategic funding for institutions like the Northwest Activities Center.
The map shows demolitions approved by Detroit City Council. The properties are shown in three categories indicated by different colors: Approved, In-Process and Completed. The approved properties have been inspected and identified as dangerous by BSEED and subsequently approved for demolition by City Council. They will remain on the list until a funding source is identified. The in-process properties are currently undergoing utility clearances, bidding or active demolition. The completed properties have been demolished to final grade.
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$260,000 for utility bills at the Northwest Activities Center. In addition, the city provides in-kind services of Detroit Recreation Department employees who work as Northwest Activities Center staff part-time and sometimes full-time during peak periods. In other words, city workers and employees of Northwest Community Programs Inc. work sideby-side to make sure the Northwest Activities Center serves our residents at the highest level possible. Mayor Bing has taken bold steps to propose and launch programs to attract philanthropic and corporate funding for recreation in Detroit. One of them, the Active and Safe
The City of Detroit and Northwest Community Programs leadership are working together during this challenging time to continue to provide programs and activities for the northwest Detroit community. If individuals or organizations wish to make donations toward continued operations and programs at the Northwest Activities Center, they can do so by contacting Northwest Community Programs Executive DiDTE0121 | Clients/DTE Energy/DTE0121 Miscellaneous Creative Projects/Ethnic rector Ronald Lockett or me. File Name DTE0121_4.94x10.5-Ethnic-V1-R3.indd | Page 1 of 1 | Rev0 | 07/01/13 He can be reached at rlockett@nwac-detroit. Michigan Chronicle | 4.94x10.5 | No Bleed | Close 07/01/13 org or (313) 578-7541. I can be reached at mintREVisions DuE To AgEncy 07/01/13 era@detroitmi.gov or (313) 224-1123. We cerDT ____ CR ____ TR ____ PR ____ AE ____ tainly appreciate the support.
Detroit residents now can get status of building demolition online Detroit residents can now see where a particular structure is in the demolition process by using an online demolition map recently launched on the City of Detroit Buildings, Safety Engineering & Environmental Department’s (BSEED) Web site.
July 31-Aug. 6, 2013 Page A-2
mation for public access, we reduce the amount of time required to respond to community requests. We hope this new tool will help us strengthen our partnerships with community members.”
status of dangerous buildings will allow neighborhood associations and individuals to do searches on properties and have self-service access to the quarterly status updates on dangerous buildings.
Detailed property information is available at a click and the map includes overlays of City Council districts. It also includes a feedback form so that community members can report any issues with current demolitions and communicate with the department about other open and dangerous buildings.
For more information about the demolition tool and other BSEED streamlining initiatives, contact Helen Broughton at 313628-2459 or broughtonh@ detroitmi.gov.
Online access to the
HOW TO CONTACT US: THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE 479 LEDYARD • DETROIT MI 48201 (313) 963-5522 • FAX (313) 963-8788
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The interactive tool was created for the Department by Data Driven Detroit with funding by the Woodward Corridor Initiative/Living Cities Initiative.
For general, local
“We are pleased to provide a public vehicle for information about dangerous buildings,” said David Bell, interim director. “This is a key issue in neighborhoods, and the map is a great step in our process of creating a more transparent and effective department. By providing council-approved demolition infor-
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July 31 - Aug. 6, 2013
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
Page A-3
Prime Politics Napoleon makes the case for Detroit mayor Benny Napoleon was born, raised, and still lives in Detroit. He currently serves as Wayne County sheriff. He is a former chief of police for the Detroit Police Department and holds the distinction of serving as the department’s youngest chief ever. Overall, Napoleon has more than 38 years of public service experience, which includes a stint as assistant Wayne County executive. Now, the Mercy College of Detroit law school graduate believes, as the city’s next mayor, he will bring the Motor City back by curtailing crime, creating jobs and revitalizing blighted neighborhoods. Sheriff Napoleon stopped by the Michigan Chronicle office and sat before an editorial panel to explain why he is best suited to become Detroit’s next mayor. These questions are from Donald James MC: Talk a little bit about why you want to be the next mayor. BN: Our city needs strong leadership at this point. It needs leadership that has walked in the shoes of Detroiters. It needs leadership that has experienced an abandoned house next door, knows what it’s like to have streetlights out on the block for weeks and months at a time, to have been a victim of a crime. I understand because I
have lived it. I know what Detroiters need because I am a lifetime Detroiter who has the leadership experience to run this city and make it a better place for its residents and businesses.
policies and resource costs. We can do a better job with the number that we have, but we need additional resources so I can create a climate of compliance where people believe when they commit a crime, they will be caught. Right now, that climate doesn’t exist.
MC: The next mayor will be elected by the people, yet Kevyn Orr, the city’s emergency manager will have significant power to override any of the mayor’s decisions. What’s your take on having an emergency manager in the city, if and when, you take office, and will you be able to work with Orr? BN: I think the emergency manager law is unconstitutional. There’s a challenge to it now in federal court. Assuming that the federal court does what I believe it will do, which is to say the law is unconstitutional, then Mr. Orr will go. If the court does not, then he’s here. If he is here (after the court ruling) then we have to work with him. I believe he was brought in to handle the city’s finances. So my response to Mr. Orr is that you take care of the finances and leave the running of Detroit’s affairs to elected representatives. Within the budget that Mr. Orr provides, the mayor of Detroit should set the priorities and run and manage the city and respective departments. MC: Some current city officials believe that De-
MC: There are past examples of when city council members didn’t know anything about some major initiatives that some previous mayors were pushing to the public. What is the ideal partnership between the mayor and city council that you will establish should you become mayor?
Benny Napoleon troit, given its current population that continues to drop, should shrink in geographical size. Will you shrink the city? BN: I don’t want to shrink the city, I want to grow it, and I think we can grow it. But we have to first make the city safe. We have a housing stock that is affordable compared to other parts of the country. People will move here if they believe they will be safe. We have enough abandoned homes that can be repaired. We could put the homes in the hands of churches and community groups and tell them to fix them up, sell them, and put someone in the homes they will trust. I have the vision and the
will and the leadership experience to grow this city by first making it safe. MC: Will you, as mayor, free up police officers from doing desk work and reassign them to the streets of Detroit? BN: We need more officers on the street, there’s no question about that. The city of Detroit is extremely short on staffing. However, I don’t believe if you took everybody from behind a desk and put them on the streets that it would resolve our shortage problem. But, we definitely need additional officers out there. However, no one else in this race has the understanding that I do about staffing, police
Discarded Black history books cause political stir in Highland Park By Donald James SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE
Linda G. Wheeler is in attack mode these days; not in the physical, violent sense, but in the sense of standing up to a travesty that she said originated in June, 2013 when approximately 10,000 books from Highland Park High School’s media center were dumped into trash bins. Wheeler, a longtime Highland Parker and educator, along with many other Highland Park residents and education stakeholders, has been enraged since learning of the incident. In addition to the thousands of discarded books, according to Wheeler, were African-American-themed films, videos, tape recordings and other artifacts. File cabinets, desks and book cases were also tossed. Wheeler and other concerned residents and stakeholders formed a grassroots activist group called Citizens for Highland Park Public Schools, to strategize and organize efforts to address the affront to Highland Park students, the city and to anyone who values books and education.
Act 436). The letter also asked for the governor to meet with the group, and Wheeler credited Paul for the state of Michigan Lee, a Highland Park resi- to reimburse Highland dent, historian, and Black Park Public Schools for history authority, with the estimated value of the climbing into a dumpster lost books. Additionally, to retrieve some of the the letter, which was copdiscarded books, which ied to President Obama, probably totaled 1,000. requested that Highland Lee later told news out- Park School District be lets that the tossed books returned to the control were part of the school’s of the community. The library that dated back to group plans to continue the 1960s when a Black its proactive activities. studies program was first instituted at Highland Park High School. 10,000 books by mistake? It doesn’t make sense.”
Lee, who was instrumental in building the collection, added that the library “compared with a good community college library, and in some ways a university graduate library in terms of its diversity, range, depth, and topics on Black history and culture.” Lee stated that the collection “wasn’t only African-American books, but also contained publications about Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean.” Wheeler said the recovered books are being stored at a clandestine location for the safety of the publications. She believes several hundred more books remain at the high school, but efforts by Citizens for Highland Park Public Schools to rescue the books have been rebuffed by Weatherspoon. Calls were placed to Weatherspoon’s office, but were not returned by Chronicle press time.
“We started this organization because Donald Weatherspoon, the state-appointed emergency manager for the Highland Park School District, dumped the 10,000 books from our high school,” In a display of the said Wheeler, who chairs group’s disdain for the the organization. “The dumping of books and community didn’t know other educational and what happened until cultural materials, Wheelweeks later, after many er and others have orgadumpings of valuable, nized and facilitated a serare, one-of-a-kind books ries of protests, including and other materials and the “Slowdown in Motown equipment were gone. – Highland Park Style,” The books can’t be re- which she described as a placed.” concerted strategy to use According to Wheeler, Weatherspoon claimed the books were discarded by mistake. “A mistake?” exclaimed Wheeler. “Whoever heard of a mistake that resulted in the dumping of 10,000 books? Maybe, I can understand one book or maybe two books getting tossed by mistake, but how can you throw away
slow-moving automobiles to slow traffic in order to convey a message of discontent to motorists about the tossed books.
Several weeks ago, the group sent a letter to Gov. Snyder, demanding him to remove Weatherspoon because of the unconstitutionality of the emergency manager law (Public
“We are not going away,” Wheeler said with passion. “There are people in Highland Park, in the region, across the nation and in other parts of the world who are voicing their disdain for what happened to the discarded books and other materials, and have vowed to continue to support the efforts of Citizens for Highland Park Public Schools.”
BN: You have to learn how to count to five. If you’re going to advance a major initiative or project for the city, you have to go get five votes. Mayor Young was (known for) getting five votes. He understood the legislative process and I understand the legislative process as well. You have to sell your ideas to the majority of the council. No one likes being told what to do, or told after the fact; they want to participate in the decision-making process. I think any mayor that’s willing to truly be open to inclusiveness with be successful with the city council. MC: Do you think that Detroit can become a city
of destination, where people will want to come here because of our attractions? BN: Absolutely. One of the things that we have not done well is market Detroit to the nation. That will be a part of what I will do as mayor, make sure that people from around the country and the world understand that there are outstanding attractions in Detroit. We sit on an international waterway with Canada, but have not marketed it. We have Greenfield Village, the Motown Museum, Detroit Institute of Arts and other great sites for visitors. We have the original General Motors Building, which a section of could become a museum for world visitors. Why can’t there be a museum in our city that combines the iconic automobiles made by Ford, Chrysler and GM? We’ve also allowed Kronk Gym, which is known all over the world, to deteriorate to the point of embarrassment. It should be a place of destination for visitors. We have been closeminded about what this city means to the world. As mayor, I will have the vision and mindset to make Detroit a city of destination. When more people visit our city, more money will be spent in our city, which is great for the local economy.
STATE OF MICHIGAN BEFORE THE MICHIGAN PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION **** NOTICE OF HEARING FOR THE NATURAL GAS CUSTOMERS OF DTE GAS COMPANY CASE NO. U-17216 • DTE Gas Company, f/k/a The Michigan Consolidated Gas Company requests Michigan Public Service Commission approval to reconcile its Revenue Decoupling Mechanism for the period July 1, 2012 through October 31, 2012. • The information below describes how a person may participate in this case. • You may call or write DTE Gas Company, One Energy Plaza, Detroit, Michigan 48226, (800) 477-4747, for a free copy of its application. Any person may review the application at the offices of DTE Gas Company. • A public hearing in this matter will be held:
DATE/TIME:
August 15, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. This will be a prehearing conference to determine future hearing dates and other procedural matters.
BEFORE:
Administrative Law Judge Thomas E. Maier
LOCATION:
Constitution Hall 525 West Allegan Lansing, Michigan
PARTICIPATION:
Any interested person may attend and participate. The hearing site is accessible, including handicapped parking. Persons needing any accommodation to participate should contact the Commission’s Executive Secretary at (517) 241-6160 in advance to request mobility, visual, hearing or other assistance.
The Michigan Public Service Commission (Commission) will hold a public hearing to consider DTE Gas Company’s (DTE Gas) May 20, 2013 application, which seeks approval to reconcile the Company’s Revenue Decoupling Mechanism (RDM) for the period July 1, 2012 through October 31, 2012. DTE Gas also seeks Commission approval to: a) adjust its existing retail gas rates to collect a net amount of $5.2 million, plus interest; and b) include any residual balance resulting from an over- or under-collection, or an over- or under-refund in subsequent RDM reconciliation filings as described in its application. All documents filed in this case shall be submitted electronically through the Commission’s E-Dockets website at: michigan.gov/mpscedockets. Requirements and instructions for filing can be found in the User Manual on the E-Dockets help page. Documents may also be submitted, in Word or PDF format, as an attachment to an email sent to mpscedockets@michigan.gov. If you require assistance prior to e-filing, contact Commission staff at (517) 241-6180 or by email at mpscedockets@michigan.gov. Any person wishing to intervene and become a party to the case shall electronically file a petition to intervene with this Commission by August 8, 2013. (Interested persons may elect to file using the traditional paper format.) The proof of service shall indicate service upon DTE Gas’ attorney, Richard P. Middleton, One Energy Plaza, Detroit, Michigan 48226. Any person wishing to appear at the hearing to make a statement of position without becoming a party to the case may participate by filing an appearance. To file an appearance, the individual must attend the hearing and advise the presiding administrative law judge of his or her wish to make a statement of position. All information submitted to the Commission in this matter becomes public information: available on the Michigan Public Service Commission’s website, and subject to disclosure. Please do not include information you wish to remain private. Requests for adjournment must be made pursuant to the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure R 460.17315 and R 460.17335. Requests for further information on adjournment should be directed to (517) 241-6060. A copy of DTE Gas’ request may be reviewed on the Commission’s website at michigan.gov/mpscedockets, and at the office of DTE Gas Company, One Energy Plaza, Detroit, Michigan. For more information on how to participate in a case, you may contact the Commission at the above address or by telephone at (517) 241-6180. Jurisdiction is pursuant to 1909 PA 300, as amended, MCL 462.2 et seq.; 1919 PA 419, as amended, MCL 460.54 et seq.; 1939 PA 3, as amended, MCL 460.1 et seq.; 1969 PA 306, as amended, MCL 24.201 et seq.; and the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure, as amended, 1999 AC, R 460.17101 et seq. July 22, 2013
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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
Bankruptcy Week with George Stephanopoulos,” Will suggested that “unmarried mothers” are also responsible for Detroit’s bankruptcy, the largest of its kind in U.S. history. And this is how Will explained it on the roundtable interview. “You have a city, 139 square miles, you can raise cattle in vast portions of it, dangerous herds of feral dogs roam in there. Three percent of fourth graders reading at the national math standards, 47 percent of Detroit residents are functionally illiterate, 79 percent of Detroit children are born to unmarried mothers. They don’t have a fiscal problem, they have a cultural collapse,” Will said. For a so-called analyst of Will’s standing to abandon the economic argument facing municipalities across the country with Detroit being the latest litmus test, and instead opt for a moral crusade as the answer to this economic crisis is beyond any form of comprehension. Either it is a very lazy job on his part, an elitist approach or a downright racist diatribe because in plain conservative language, whenever “unwed mothers” are used in the poiltical debates it is meant to render White liberals as morally bankrupt in their alliance with Black voters. And with Detroit being a major Black city, it is no accident that Will played the moral card in this instance. Will showed his true colors by offering a prognosis about Detroit that won’t pass the smell test. We’ve seen men and others like him before
From page A-1
mask behind a so-called intellectual debate while the argument they are making is incoherent or basically dumb. Will could have done better than that. But like many on the national stage, he is not only blinded by his own self-righteous rules, but also by the wrong narrative that has long confined Detroit’s image on the national scene. Yes, the city has problems that are inexcusable, most of which have to be put at the feet of its leaders, even though federal and state policies cannot be overlooked in this financial reckoning. But to blame the lifestyle or choices that hard-pressed and taxpaying residents and families make as a major factor for this collapse is insanity, intellectual dishonesty and a fraudulent argument by a purported intellectual. Why is it that whenever issues of economic significance are tabled, the masses or the majority poor are always blamed and their lifestyles brought up as the reason? Was it unmarried mothers who caused the collapse of Wall Street? Was it unwed mothers who caused the collapse of the international economic system that was bailed out by the Obama administration? Was it unmarried mothers who forced homeowners out of their homes after buffeting them with subprime lending practices and incomprehensible loans and interest rates, designed to benefit Wall Street, while making homeowners homeless?
Was it unwed mothers who were responsible for the massive economic crisis that greeted the dawn of the Obama administration? But we know why Wall Street collapsed. The greed and fierce competition of elitist White men. George Will, and others, can no longer mask under “rational thinking” while offering us code words that we know are not only racist but elitist and downright dishonest. If this is what he has to offer regarding Detroit’s economic crisis on national television, maybe the longtime conservative ideologue is at a lockjam and has run out of ideas for the growing problems facing this nation, and it might just be time to bench him from the ABC roundtable. Bankole Thompson is the editor of the Michigan Chronicle and author of the forthcoming 2014 book on Detroit titled “Rising From the Ashes: Engaging Detroit’s Fu ture with Courage.” His most recent book, “Obama and Christian Loyalty,” deals with the politics of the religious right, Black theology and the president’s faith pos ture across a myriad of issues with an epilogue written by former White House spokesman Robert S. Weiner. He is a polit ical analyst at WDET101.9FM (Detroit Public Radio) and a member of the weekly “Obama Watch” roundtable on WLIB-1190AM New York. Email him at bthomp son@michronicle.com or visit www.bankolethomp son.com.
Love for mentoring young girls drives Pageant Atterberry Mentoring has long been one of the most effective tools for helping young people build self-esteem and confidence in order for them to make meaningful contributions to society. That idea of helping young people looking for guidance and direction is not lost on Pageant Bianca Atterberry, a candidate for Donald Trump’s Miss Michigan USA. The 23-year-old Detroiter, who will be in Washington starting September for a three- month internship with The Washington Center focusing on political journalism, said mentoring has been the hallmark of her work growing up. Since 2005, she has been a mentor to
Pageant Atterberry younger women seeking to build their self-esteem and their ability to make right choices in life. A University of Detroit Mercy student, Atteryberry has done work for victims of Hurricane Katrina, helping to rebuild homes and setting up gardens, and the Campus Kitchen, helping to feed
City Council District 2. Leslie Love: At a time when Detroit needs new blood in its local government Love can offer it to the city council. A teacher and professor at Marygrove College her background and experience in education will bring a much needed perspective to city council. Diverse voices make for an effective local government. District 3. Scott Benson: His small business background and involvement in all things Midtown is another perspective to the legislative process of Detroit. Benson’s experience is an added advantage at a time when small businesses have been complaining about red tape in Detroit government. Time to end the bureaucracy and it can start with Benson and his colleagues on the council. District 4. Andre L. Spivey: Spivey has been a strong and steady voice on the Detroit City Council for the last four years, navigating its most challenging times. His first election inspired hope in a renewed sense of leadership from a rising generation of political leadership who can begin to direct the order of business in Detroit. Because of that and to maintain continuity, Spivey should be returned to the council. He has demonstrated clarity, precision and calm and steady leadership. District 5. Brian White: With Detroit in transition comes the need to change the outlook of our local government. Sending White to the city council for the first time will make a strong statement about the significance and positive results of grassroots politics and the importance of positioning emerging leaders who are demonstrating a strong commitment to public service. District 6. Vince Keenan: Unlike some of the other candidates in this race for city council, Keenan did not just show up. He has long been an observer, ad-
the hungry and those who cannot cook for themselves. Her passion for community service and volunteerism is part of her everyday drive. “Growing up I didn’t have a big sister. I had nine brothers and my mom worked a lot,” Atterberry said. “I’m always willing and eager to support initiatives that are geared towards empowerment of young girls and instilling pride in them.” That message of empowerment is what is also driving Atterberry to host a special networking evening on Aug. 11, from 6-10 p.m., at the Encore Salon, 19471 W. Ten Mile Road in Southfield, that will be attended by a cross section of the community.
From page A-1 vocate and leader in ensuring an effective local government that works for all of Detroit. His commendable electoral work making voting more accessible for Detroiters is an example of the type of vision he will bring to the Detroit City Council. That is why Detroit needs him on that body that will speak for our city. District 7. John Bennett: Bennett’s name in Detroit has been synonymous with police reform. A longtime advocate for public safety and government accountability, his voice is needed regarding where Detroit goes from here. Having a watchdog calling out government waste and pushing for realistic reforms in our police department at a time when public safety is a nightmare could not be more timely. Bennett will deliver what is needed, and taxpayers have a right to expect to see the results of their investments. District at Large – Saunteel Jenkins: As President of the Detroit City Council, Jenkins has an important role to play now, and will continue to in the future. Her tenure in the last four years has prepared her to provide critical leadership to this important legislative body. A successful council is one that consists of experienced as well as new voices and Jenkins’ experience and passion for public service are invaluable assets for where Detroit goes next in both post-emergency manager and post-bankruptcy. District at Large – Brenda Jones: Labor has always been an integral part of Detroit’s growth and where it is headed. Jones has been a constant voice for that important segment of labor, ensuring workplace fairness and equitable wages. She needs to return to the city council at a time when it will be dealing with a lot of labor issues now and in the immediate future. She knows how to fight for the working class.
July 31 - Aug. 6, 2013 Page A-4
Napoleon
From page A-1
to the city of Detroit. As poleon, public safety will he put it succinctly, “We take a visible front row need a mayor who under- seat in our local governstands Detroit’s pain.” ment. The Michigan Chronicle 3. Growing Detroit — believes it is important to When asked what he will choose a leader who can do about the size of the connect not only with city, Napoleon’s answer “the powers that be,” but was, “I don’t want to also with the everyday shrink the city. I want to people of Detroit. grow it.” He brings a fresh Acknowledging and understanding their pain, as well as their concerns and priorities, means that Napoleon will work to champion the causes of those who have long felt abandoned in this city. We need a mayor who will do that at the same time he works to create an environment that will attract and welcome new businesses and residents to the city. 2. Public Safety — As Detroit’s police chief under former mayor Dennis Archer, Napoleon worked to reduce crime in the city. He was a tough cop who understood how to tackle crime. Yes, the department came under the watchful eyes of the Justice Department, but he was vindicated. He was not afraid to let the federal government come in and he did not interfere with their investigations into the police department. He is now pushing a crime fighting strategy that is different from what all of the other candidates have offered. As a former police chief who has been a victim of crime in the city, we do not believe Detroit could find a better crime fighter than Napoleon. We like the strategy he has discussed on the campaign trail: Detroit needs to create a compliance atmosphere, where criminals will know that they will pay a predictable and stiff price for the crimes they commit. Having a mayor who was a tough police chief is an advantage and we have no doubt that, under Na-
perspective in the debate about the city’s future. Too much of the discussion has been about shrinking Detroit. On the contrary, Napoleon wants to grow the city and its potential because he believes in the future of Detroit. To do this, he wants to attract people to the city with new, affordable housing stock. He also recognizes that crime, high insurance costs and a poor school system cause families to leave Detroit. He wants to address those issues. Moreover, Napoleon understands that the office of the mayor should be the biggest cheerleader for attracting families and investors to Detroit, and we believe he will carry out that mission if elected.
4. Business Investment — Detroit needs all the help it can get from the business community. For example, the recent donation of police and fire trucks from Detroit business leaders was crucial to addressing the public safety dilemma. And we need more jobs in the city. Napoleon has made it clear that the business community will continue to have an important role and say in the future of Detroit. Napoleon believes in a healthy private/ public sector partnership, and that is good and right for Detroit. But Napoleon also understands that businesses cannot thrive in Detroit if the city is not safe. We agree with him and support his view that the most important priority for the city should be
public safety. Napoleon, who opposed the appointment of an emergency manager, has made it clear that he is prepared to direct the day-to-day affairs of the city while the emergency manager continues to address the financial wellbeing of Detroit during the timespan remaining under P.A. 436. If given the opportunity by voters, we believe Napoleon will make a great and dedicated mayor of Detroit at a time when we will see the rebirth of the city. However, we recognize that candidate Mike Duggan is also a strong contender whose work and experience speaks of his love for public service. From being Wayne County Prosecutor to CEO of the Detroit Medical Center, Duggan has done an outstanding job in every position he has served in. His work speaks for itself. We admire Duggan and are pleased that he has chosen to move to the city. Whatever the outcome of the election, we hope he continues to play an important role in the city’s future. But we strongly believe Napoleon is the right choice for mayor at this time. His record as police chief and his commitment to tackle public safety, an issue that dominates nearly every conversation in our community, will make for a mayor who is amply prepared to also tackle the next challenges Detroit faces. Napoleon will lead Detroit into a future where all of us and our children can be proud. We urge voters to vote for Benny Napoleon for mayor of the city of Detroit.
Michigan Black Chamber PAC supports Napoleon for mayor The Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce (MBCC), headed by Ken Harris, has announced that its Political Action Committee has endorsed Sheriff Benny N. Napoleon for mayor of the city of Detroit. “The PAC decided overwhelmingly to support Sheriff Benny Napoleon because of his leadership history, safety track record, and economic agenda to support local, neighborhood, Black-owned, Detroit-based businesses — the real underserved, and ignored, economy in Detroit,” according to Duron Marshall, PAC chair. “Additionally, the committee would like to thank all the candidates who took the time out of their busy schedules to fill out our questionnaire and request endorsement. Please continue to support Black-owned business and the MBCC advocacy efforts.” Detroit is home to more than 32,000 Black businesses and ranked No. 4 in the country behind New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, which will play a major role in influencing Detroit politics. The MBCC PAC encourages all Black businesses in Detroit to support its en-
dorsed candidates in the upcoming primary to be held Tuesday, August 6. “As the oldest Blackowned retail clothier in the city of Detroit and president of the Detroit Black Chamber of Commerce, an affiliate chapter of MBCC, we believe Benny Napoleon will be a progressive advocate for an urban economic agenda in the city of Detroit,” said Detroit Black Chamber of Commerce President Tony Stovall. “I, along with many Detroiters, value the work of the Michigan Black Chamber to provide guidance to entrepreneurs, promote Black-owned businesses, and help our community address challenges to deliver quality services to residents,” Napoleon said. “We share a similar vision in creating the environment across our city for entrepreneurs to open businesses in the neighborhoods as part of an effort to create livable, walkable, and sustainable neighborhoods.” Napoleon said his administration will cut the red tape by reducing the time it takes to receive permits and licenses, and make it safe to operate a business in this city. “We can create the
environment for a progrowth economy, while businesses will offer the services and jobs that are much needed by Detroiters. I am honored to receive the endorsement from the Michigan Black Chamber and look forward to collaborating with the chamber and its members to transform this city one square mile at a time,” Napoleon said. Harris, the CEO of the Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce who was one of several supporters who spoke at Napoleon’s mayoral announcement at the Masonic Temple, said, “It is important that Detroit districts become entrepreneurial centers of economic development. What exists in Detroit’s neighborhoods is an underserved economy due to the lack of direct resources, access to capital, and an urban economic agenda. We believe Benny Napoleon will help Detroit become an epicenter for neighborhood revitalization and redevelopment for diverse business.” The MBCC PAC plans to host a Black business fundraiser after the August 6 primary with its General Election endorsees.
President Obama meets with civil rights leaders to discuss voting rights The Supreme Court’s decision invalidating one of the Voting Rights Act’s core provisions upsets decades of well-established practices that help make sure voting is fair, especially in places where voting discrimination has been historically prevalent. Since the decision, President Obama has called on Congress to pass legislation to ensure every American has equal access to the polls. The Voting Rights Act has been reauthorized repeatedly by wide bipartisan
margins in Congress, and signed into law by Republican presidents. In addition, every single American should have an interest in ensuring that every eligible American is able to exercise his or her right to vote. So we remain hopeful that we will find a legislative solution to ensure a fair, and equal voting process. Among the participants at the July 29 meeting were: • Barbara Arnwine, president and executive director, Lawyers’ Com-
mittee for Civil Rights Under Law Napoleon Bracy, Alabama state representative • Roslyn Brock, chairperson, NAACP Board of Directors • John Echohawk, executive director, Native American Rights Fund • Margaret Fung, executive director, Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund • Wade Henderson, president and CEO, Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights.
July 31 - August 6, 2013 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Page A-5
Our public schools represent our nation’s commitment to helping all children dream their dreams and achieve them. A high-quality public education for all children is an economic necessity, an anchor of democracy, a moral imperative and a fundamental civil right, without which none of our other rights can be fully realized. It’s time to reclaim the promise of public education— not as it is today or as it was in the past, but as we imagine it for our children—to fulfill our collective obligation to help all children succeed. Reclaiming the promise is about fighting for neighborhood public schools that are safe, welcoming places for teaching and learning. Reclaiming the promise is about ensuring that teachers are well-prepared, are supported and have time to collaborate so they can meet the individual needs of every child. Reclaiming the promise is about making sure our children have an engaging curriculum, including art, music and physical education. Reclaiming the promise is about ensuring that children have access to wraparound services to meet their emotional, social and health needs.
Reclaim the Promise. go.aft.org/promise #ReclaimIt
news
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
July 31 - Aug. 6, 2013
Page A-6
Study finds teacher turnover harms student learning the next are harmed by turnover. This suggests that turnover has a broad, disruptive impact on all members of the school organization, the researchers say. “The average effect is negative, and it’s a meaningful one,” Ronfeldt said. “Even though we were using different modeling strategies, we got similar results, which made us feel more confident we had gotten a true effect.
Teacher turnover negatively affects student learning in math and English, a researcher from the University of Michigan School of Education and colleagues found. The impact is particularly strong in low-performing schools and among Black students, they say. Matthew Ronfeldt, U-M assistant professor of educational studies, and colleagues Susanna Loeb of Stanford University and James Wyckoff of the University of Virginia studied data over an eight-year period beginning with the 2001-02 academic year that included 850,000 observations of New York City public school fourthand fifth-grade students. They found that when comparing students with in the same grade and school but in different years, student math scores were 8.2-10.2 percent of a standard deviation (variation from the average) lower in years when there was 100 percent turnover, as opposed to no turnover at all. English language arts scores were 4.9-6.0 percent lower. In a typical grade level with five teachers, re-
ducing turnover from two teachers to none was estimated to increase students’ math achievement by about 2-4 percent of a standard deviation. The researchers say this is a small but meaningful effect and applies to all students in that grade level. Ronfeldt and colleagues also analyzed turnover on a school-byyear basis, which allowed them to measure variations across grade levels within the same year and school in order to rule out other influences on the outcome such as bringing in a new principal. Under this method, students had a 7.4-9.6 percent of a standard deviation lower test scores in math and 6.0-8.3 percent of a standard deviation lower scores in English language arts. The team’s research is the first to compare the effects of teacher turnover across years within the same grade and school (or across grade levels within the same school and year), as opposed to looking at turnover in an entire school or district. The study also indicates that the students of teachers who remain in the same grade and school from one year to
“There was no prior research looking at a direct effect. A lot of correlational studies at the school level have shown that teacher turnover is related to student achievement as a whole, but it is really remarkable that no one had gone beyond that. We wanted to get more of a direct effect.” Statistics show that about 30 percent of new teachers leave the profession within five years, and the turnover rate is 50 percent higher in high-poverty schools, Ronfeldt and colleagues say. Previous research has been mixed on the effect of turnover. Some studies have shown the loss of institutional knowledge and a diversion of resources toward the hiring process to be harmful to schools. Others have found that turnover can bring in new ideas and fresh perspectives to organizations, which might enhance student learning. Some research has found that more effective teachers stay behind in schools while less-effective peers move on, suggesting overall teacher quality may benefit from turnover. However, these studies did not consider whether the churn of teachers might impact teachers who remain in their schools over time.
Local organization reacts to new plan to cut down on housing discrimination The Department of Housing and Urban Development is taking steps to strengthen the Fair Housing Act of 1968 which makes housing discrimination illegal. A new regulation announced this past Friday would give HUD program participants a better understanding of their requirements under the Fair Housing Act to overcome historic patterns of segregation, promote fair housing choice, and foster inclusive communities. “The proposed rule includes more support, guidance, and monitoring by HUD,” said Legal Services of Eastern Michigan Fair Housing Director Patricia Baird. “Hopefully this will encourage municipalities and public housing authorities to truly strive for more diverse communities.” The current HUD practice has been scrutinized by The U.S. Government Accountability Office
(GAO), many stakeholders and advocates who say it’s just not working. “The current practice of affirmatively furthering fair housing carried out by HUD grantees, which involves an analysis of impediments to fair housing choice and a certification that the grantee will affirmatively further fair housing, has not been as effective as had been envisioned,” according to HUD officials. So HUD has come up with this proposed regulation to solve the problem. To facilitate the new approach, HUD would have uniform data for every neighborhood in the country detailing access people in each community has to schools, jobs, transportation and other neighborhood resources. “This is data we already use here at the Fair Housing Center of Eastern Michigan, but now it will give other organizations the same individualized approach to ensure
fairness,” says Baird. “The new regulation includes fair housing assessment, planning tools and technical assistance, plus a more clearly defined idea of what it means to positively further fair housing. “ The proposed rule also commits HUD to greater engagement and helps ensure that every American is able to choose where they live and in a community in which they feel proud. HUD officials say “with this new clarity through guidance, a template for the assessment, and a HUD-review process, program participants should achieve more meaningful outcomes. “ Baird says “the first federal fair housing laws were enacted in 1866, yet there is still a very high discrimination rate in our communities. Although it appears that we are going in the right direction, there is still a long way to go.”
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Black Girls
CODE: Making Technology Accessible to all
July 31 - Aug. 6, 2013
By RJ Barnhill
A
lthough the urban digital divide is steadily eroding, there are still tremendous barriers to entry into the technology field that still remain for women of color. Early access and exposure are essential to changing the status quo. Through a combination of workshops and field trips, Black Girls Code is providing girls with new skills in computer programming, introducing them to role models in the technology space, and building their confidence to become tech creators and entrepreneurs. By reaching out to the community through workshops and after-school programs, Black Girls Code introduces computer coding lessons to young girls from underrepresented communities in programming languages such as Scratch or Ruby on Rails. Black Girls Code has set out to prove to the world that girls of every color have the skills to become the programmers of tomorrow. By promoting classes and programs they hope to grow the number of women of color working in technology and give underprivileged girls a chance to become the masters of their technological worlds. Recently celebrating their one-year anniversary, Black Girls Code had the honor of bringing technology and entertainment to many young girls of color. By teaching the girls programming and game design, the organization hopes to have started the lifelong process of developing in them a love for technology and the self-confidence that comes from understanding the greatest tools of the 21st century. While Black Girls Code is pleased with the results of their work so far, this is just the first step in seeking to bridge the digital divide. According the BGC founder Kimberly Bryant, “The digital divide, or the gap between those with regular, effective access to digital technology and those without, is becoming an increasingly critical problem in society. As more and more information becomes electronic, the inability to get online can leave entire communities at an extremely dangerous disadvantage.” A personal quest Kimberly Bryant’s journey into coding started early. “When I was first introduced to computer programming, as a freshman in Electrical Engineering, Fortran and Pascal were the popular languages for newbies in computing and the Apple Mac-
See BLACK GIRL CODE page B-2
community
Black Girl Code intosh was the new kid on the block,” she said. “I remember being excited by the prospects, and looked forward to embarking on a rich and rewarding career after college.” But Bryant also recalled feeling culturally isolated and noted few of her classmates looked like her. “While we shared similar aspirations and many good times, there was much to be said for making any challenging journey with people of the same cultural background.” Much has changed since her college days, but she says there’s still a dearth of African-American women in science, technology, engineering and math professions. “This absence cannot be explained by a lack of interest in these fields. Lack of access and lack of exposure to STEM topics are the likelier culprits,” she said. “By launching Black Girls Code, I hope to provide young and pre-teen girls of color opportunities to learn in-demand skills at a time when they are naturally thinking about what they want to be when they grow up.” Richard Session is lead software architect of Chalkfly.com, a local tech business, and he spoke to
the disparities in technology use: “Technology is huge and is only getting bigger. It’s so easy for us to be consumers (blogs, apps, mobile devices), but we truly empower ourselves when we become creators.” “There are so many open IT jobs available but many of us don’t have the skills to apply for them. Getting young girls to participate in BGC can lead them not only to these opportunities, but also keep them engaged in STEM subjects that seem to pass many girls by as they get older,” he said. Local independent web developer Jason Walker said, “Black Girls Code is a perfect example of how to help young women gain experience from experts in the field. In technology, mentorship is priceless. Often there’s too much for one person to navigate as they start out, and I’ve seen many adults throw their hands up in frustration. With BGC beginners get a guide to help them through the maze.” Walker went on to say, “BGC can offer an opportunity to any young woman who may not know she can do more with her laptop than check Facebook.
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
July 31 - Aug. 7, 2013
Page B-2
From page B-1 limited. I want her to understand that she’s more than capable of getting into any field she’s interested in. “I’d love for her to understand that as she’s plays her favorite video games, there’s no reason she can’t one day make them herself.” BlackGirlsCODE is bringing a 1-day webmaking workshop to Detroit on Saturday, August 17th, to Wayne State University. This workshop will focus on mobile app development with Android AppInventor and feature exciting “tech chats” from inspiring women mobile innovators. No prior programming experience is required for this class. All BGC events are geared towards introducing participants to the technological universe and encouraging them to pursue careers as Tech creators and entrepreneurs. This ciass intended for girls ages 13-17. The event starts promptly at 10am and ends at 4pm. For more information and registration visitwww.wdet.org/events/236/ black-girls-code-workshop-build-a-mobile-app/
“Now that I’m a father of two, I’m particularly sensitive to this. I don’t want my daughter to feel
State to hold first-ever Code Michigan, prizes awarded for best mobile applications Code developers are invited to the state’s first-ever Code Michigan event this October for an opportunity to build mobile applications and win cash prizes. The free “civic coding” event will also feature presentations from heavy-hitters in the technology industry. “This unique event is only one example of how the state of Michigan is thinking outside the box on ways to improve customer service,” said John Nixon, director of the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget. “We are excited to tap into the many talented developers out there who can help us realize our vision of making state government even more innovative and responsive.” Cash prizes and opportunities to pitch developed apps to real venture capitalists will be awarded to the best, most viable and useful apps developed at the event. “Code Michigan is an exciting opportunity for civic-minded developers and designers to get together and create mobile apps for the public good,” said CIO David Behen. “This is the first chance for coders to use state data to design and build apps with real social value.”
The state is working on Code Michigan with several private partners, including Commercial Progression, Detroit Labs and Bedrock Real Estate, all of Detroit. Other sponsors include Windows Azure (Microsoft), GitHub, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “Coders have a skillset that they use every day that they can now leverage to contribute to the betterment of society,” said Rick Mason, an entrepreneur who proposed the event. “I call it ‘Democracy 2.0’” Code Michigan will result in even more useful applications than currently exists today. Similar events in other parts of the country have resulted in the creation of new companies and new jobs.
The Women’s Ministry of Abyssinia Christ Centered Ministries and
Bishop Dr. Iona E . Locke, Senior Pastor Presents
Spiritual Host Bishop Dr. Iona E . Locke Senior Pastor
Capturing The Joy of God’s Extravagant Excellence
Women of Excellence Unlocking the Power, Mystery, and Wisdom of Women. Celebration of mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, and sister friends.
Speaker Chaplain Portia Lockett
Celebrating the Excellence in Every Woman Sunday, August 11, 2013
Capturing the Joy of Excellence in the Word 9:00 a.m. Sunday School Return and Repeat: “I Am That Woman” A Dramatization
10:45 a.m. Morning Celebration:
It is scheduled to begin on Friday, Oct. 4, at 5:30 p.m., and run through Sunday, Oct. 6, 4:30 p.m., at the Madison Building, 1555 Broadway St. in Detroit.
Capturing the Joy of our Baby Girls and Teens, Morning celebration will be conducted by our Baby Girls and Teens (Under the direction of Lady Sheena Green) “I Am A Promise, I Am a Possibility” Celebration Speaker Chaplain Portia Lockett
Individuals interested in participating may register for the free threeday event by visiting the Code Michigan website at www.codemichigan.com. There are only 200 tickets available, so early registration is encouraged.
Meet and greet with Bishop Locke after service. We are the women that the world has been wating for! And who knows but that you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this and this very occasion. Easter 4:14b
5:00 p.m. Capturing the Joy of Holy Consecration : Anointing for Excellence Candlelight Service, Special Lemon-Oil Anointing with Bishop Dr. Iona E. Locke Women’s Choir Concert (Under the direction of Dr. Glenda Jones)
21853 Northwestern Highway • Southfield, Michigan 48075 • (248) 557-9451
Community Community Community
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May -- August August May May - August
a five-mile walk down the RiverWalk, up the aAugust five-mileCut, down the RiverWalk, up the Dequindre and back. 9walk - 11 Dequindre Cut, and back. Nelson Mandela Day Music Festival on Detroit Cultural Festival 8th Annual Backpack For more Caribbean information, call (313) 288Nelson Mandela Day For more information, call (313) 288Belle Isle Park 8076 or visit MRCWalk@MIMarriage.org. 8076pm or until visit MRCWalk@MIMarriage.org. 6:30 p.m. 2:00 11:00 pm 6:30 p.m. Fellowship New Center Park 8 am – 9pmChapel Fellowship Chapel 7707 2990 W. Grand Blvd Detroit BelleW. IsleOuter Park Drive Family Fun and Fitness Day 7707 W. Outer Drive Family Fun and Fitness Day Interfaith representatives, labor, ThisIsle festival, open to all, is packed with live This is an religion all-ages event for the family. The Belle Interfaith religion representatives, labor, Belle Isle students and the multicultural community performances from local and international Sunrise Breakfast kicks off the event with students and the multicultural community will gather to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s artists, flavorful andParent authentic Caribbean activities including bouncy houses and maze, Presented by Detroit Network, this will birthday. gather an to celebrate Presented Detroit Parenthow Network, this 95th food, souvenirs, andparents activities forto the entire storytelling, interactiveNelson “handsMandela’s on” music annual eventbyteaches stay fit 95th birthday. annual teaches howare to planned stay family enjoy. Special festivities tent and more! and havetoevent fun with theirparents kids. There will be fit and havefor fun with their kids. There willofbe For more information call (313) 347-2820 to celebrate the beautiful island nations activities all ages. No charge. For admission more information callwith (313) 347-2820 the activities for all No charge. Bahamas andages. St. Kitts & Nevis, this year’s Free to the event a Backpack host countries. filled with school supplies, or a $20 cash dona- For more information, call (313) 832-0617 July 24 -day 27of the event. For more information, call (313) 832-0617 tion on the July 24 - 27 For Julymore 28 information, call (313)255-2666. Karmanos Cancer Institute Celebrates July 28 For more information, call (313) 506-5292. Karmanos Cancer Institute Celebrates Cancer Survivor Week August 16 -Church 18 of Detroit celebrates Cancer Survivor Week Second Baptist August 3 - October 5 Second25th Baptist yearChurch of Detroit celebrates The Karmanos Cancer Institute kicks off Can- pastor’s 31st 25th African pastor’s yearWorld Festival The Karmanos Cancer kicks offin Can- The cer Survivor Week with aInstitute lecture from author East Meets West Wholistic Health Fair cer Survivor Week with lecture from author 2 p.m. Teresa Kilpatrick, “So Youa Survived Cancer.” Detroit 11 a.m. 11 p.m. 2 p.m. Hotel St.-Regis Teresa You survivorship Survived Cancer.” She will Kilpatrick, speak about“So cancer and Hotel St. Regis She willexpect speakafter about cancer survivorship and what to treatment ends. 10 a.m. CharlesKevin H. Wright Museum Pastor M. Turman’s 25th pastoral what to expect after treatment ends. SanKofa Life Campus 315 E. Warren Detroit Pastor Kevin M. Turman’s pastoral year will be celebrated at an 25th anniversaFor a list of events,Ave. visitDetroit www.karmanos. 18734 Woodward year will be celebrated at an anniversary banquet. Tickets are $50. The guest For a list of events, visit www.karmanos. org or call (313) 576- 9288. All events are This three at daythe festival be$50. celebrated oncebeagain ry banquet. Tickets are The will guest 10:30will a.m. service organd orDetroit call (313) 9288. All events free open to all576cancer survivors and are preacher Metro holistic guru Dr. Keefa Loron the grounds of Borders the Wright Museum with preacher at the 10:30 a.m. service willperforbeat Bishop John M. III, senior pastor free and open to all cancer survivors and their families. raine Weatherspoon brings the free East Meets mances, poetry, arts and crafts, African drumming Bishop John M. Borders III, senior Boston’s Morningstar Baptist Church.pastor at theirWholistic families.Health Fair. Health services West and dance, Morningstar hundreds of vendors, ethnic foods, and Boston’s Baptist Church. and classes, July 27 from reflexology to dance lessons, For events for all ages, including an expanded tickets or more information call Watoto areJuly featured 27to create a wholistic haven in Village for theor youngest among us! call For tickets more information (313) 961-0920 Detroit. Walkathon For Marriage And Family (313) 961-0920 Walkathon For Marriage And Family For more information visit www.thewright.org. more information, call (313)366-5250. August 3 9For a.m. August21 3 August 9 a.m. Riverfront Detroit AugustRiverfront 8 Detroit ARISE Detroit! 7th Annual NeighborWayne County Youth andARISE Senior Safety ARISE Detroit! 7th Annual Neighborhoods Day All Day Event DeThe Marriage Resource Center (MRC), a Golfing For Scholarships Fair hoods Day community All Day Event ARISE DeThe Marriage Resource Center (MRC), a in troit! invites organizations non-profit community-based organization, troit! invites organizations non-profit community-based organization, thecommunity City of Detroit to particassociation with other organizations and in- in throughout Links of Nov Golf Club 10throughout a.m.-2 p.m.theto City of Detroit to particassociation with other its organizations inipate by helping clean up. Volunteers dividuals, is presenting 4th Annual and WalkProceeds the 87th golf outing Belle Isle ipate byCasino helping to clean up. Volunteers dividuals, is presenting its 4th Annual Walk- are needed. athon Forfrom Marriage and annual Family. Participants will go For towards scholarships benefiting are needed. athon and Family. will start onMarriage the college Rivard Plaza, thenParticipants take the Youth Appreciation FoundaEnjoy a fun day of food,visit music and importwillMichigan start on the Rivard Plaza, then take For more information tion. More than 200 golfers are expected to ant to keep and seniors Forinformation more information visit www.arisedetroit.org or children call participate safe, healthy and happy.or call www.arisedetroit.org (313) 592- 1955. (313) 592- 1955. For more information, call (586) 393-8800. For more information call (313) 224-0614.
July 24 August July 243
The Detroit Public Library Celebrates the Detroit Public Library Celebrates the 70th The Anniversary Detroit Public Library Celebrates the 70th Lecture Series. Anniversary Lecture Series 70th Anniversary Lecture Series. p.m. 666p.m. p.m. Public Library. Detroit Detroit DetroitPublic PublicLibrary. Library. 5201 Woodward Woodward Ave. Ave. The The E. E. Azalia Hackley Hackley Col5201 5201 Woodward Ave. The E.Azalia Azalia Collections Hackley Collection is part of the Library’s Special Collection is part of the library’s Special Collections lection is partThis of the Library’s Special Collections Department. lecture, titled “Don Cornelius: Department. This lecture, titled “Don Cornelius: Department. This lecture, titled “Don Cornelius: Riding the Soul Train,” will celebrate the contribuRiding the Soul Train,” will celebrate the contributions Riding theiconic Soul figure Train,”and willhiscelebrate the contributions this famous television this iconic figure and his famous television show had tionshad thisoniconic figureindustry. and his famous television show the music This lecture free to on the music industry. This lecture is free andisopen show hadtoonthethepublic. music industry. This lecture is free and open the public. and open to the public. For more information information call call (313) (313) 481481- 1397. 1397 For more For more information call (313) 481- 1397
June -- September September June June - September Detroit Rolling Rolling on on the the River River Festival Festival and and Detroit Detroit Rolling on the River Festival and Summer Concert Series, Erma Henderson Summer Concert Series, Erma Henderson Summer Concert Series, Erma Henderson Park, adjacent to Whittier Park. The festival Park, adjacent to Whittier Park. The festival Park, adjacent to entertainment, Whittier Park.some The festival will highlight local entertainment, some will highlight local of of the will highlight local entertainment, some the city’s best restaurant and community city’s best restaurant and community resourceof the city’s best restaurant and community resource information adults. information for adults. for This event is free and resource open to theinformation community. for adults. This event is free and open to the community. Thismore eventinformation is free and open to the community. For more information email detroiFor email detroiFor more information email detroitrollingontheriver@gmail.com trollingontheriver@gmail.com. trollingontheriver@gmail.com
July 13,327, 30 August July 13, 27, 30 Anti-Dog Fighting Rally ARISE Detroit! 7th Annual Anti-Dog Fighting Rally Neighborhoods Day All Day Event Noon – 5 pm Noon –Detroit! 5 pm ARISE invites community Brightmoor Community Center orgaBrightmoor Community Center nizations throughout the City of Detroit to 14451 Burt Road, Detroit 14451 BurtbyRoad, Detroit participate helping to clean up. Volunteers are needed. Detroit Corps is hosting a series of anti-dog Detroit rallies Corpsin is Detroit hosting communities a series of anti-dog fighting fighting rallies in Detroit communities For more information visitbrutal affected by this illegal and activity. affected by this illegalorand www.arisedetroit.org callbrutal activity. (313) 592-information, 1955. For more call (734) 253-2053 For more information, call (734) 253-2053
July 24 - 30, 2013 July 24 - 30, 2013 July 31 - August 6, 2013
Scan and Enjoy The Scan and Enjoy The Michigan Chronicle Michigan Chronicle Scan and Enjoy The Michigan Chronicle
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August 8 August August22 8 New Detroit’s Minority Small Business Golfing For Scholarships Commercial Workshop in Detroit Golfing For Lending Scholarships Links of Nov Golf Club 11:00 5:15 Club pm Linksam of until Nov Golf SER Metro-Detroit Proceeds from the 87th annual golf outing 9301 Ave. Detroit, Proceeds fromcollege the 87th annual golf outing will goMichigan towards scholarships benefitwill go towards college scholarships benefiting the Michigan Youth Appreciation FounNew Inc., 200 will hostAppreciation a free one-day ing Detroit the Michigan Youth Foundation. More than golfers are expected banking seminar to 200 helpgolfers minority dation. More than are small expected to participate business owners strengthen their working to participate relationships with banks other call lending For more information andand tickets, institutions and expand their familiarity For more information and tickets, call with (586) 393-8800. the lending process. (586) 393-8800. For more information call (313) 664-2000.
August 16 - 18 August 16 - 18 August 22 The 31st African World Festival
The 31st African World Festival Wayne County Health and Safety Fun Fest 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. a.m. 11 p.m. 1011am – 3- pm Charles Wright Museum Wayne County Department of Public Health Charles Wright Museum 315 E. Van Warren Detroit 33030 Born Road, Wayne 315 E. Warren Detroit This dayCounty festival will be celebratedofonce Thethree Wayne Department Public Thison three festival willbe beholding celebrated again the day grounds of the Wright Museum with Health will once again itsonce Safety again on featuring the poetry, groundsarts of and the Wright Museum with performances, crafts, African Fun Fest with free health services, performances, poetry, arts and of crafts, African drumming and dance, hundreds vendors, ethnic back-to-school immunizations, health and drumming and for dance, hundreds of vendors, ethnic foods, and events all ages, including anpartners, expanddental screenings from local health foods, and eventsinformation allyoungest ages, including an ed Watoto Village forforthe among us!expandand important about nutrition ed Watoto Village for the youngest among us! and exercise. For more information visit www.thewright.org Formore more information, information visit www.thewright.org For call (734) 727-7000.
August Sep 5 - 72121 August
Wayne County Youth and Senior Safety Tuskegee Airmen Exhibit In Detroit Wayne County Youth and Senior Safety Fair Fair am until 4:00 pm 10:00 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Focus: HOPE 10 a.m.-2 p.m.Boulevard, Detroit Belle Isle Casino 1200 Oakman Belle Isle Casino Enjoy a funisday of food, musicthe and im-of The public invited to learn story Enjoy information a fun of food, music andand important to keep children andtheir America’s firstday Black military pilots portant information to happy. keep children and seniors safe, healthy and crewmen at the “Commemorative Air Force seniors safe, and happy. (CAF) Red Tailhealthy Squadron’s Rise Above” For moreexhibit. information call (313) 224-0614 traveling For more information call (313) 224-0614 For more information call (313) 494.4600.
Email Email Your Your Upcoming Events to events@michronicle.com Email Your Upcoming Upcoming Events Eventsto to events@michronicle.com events@michronicle.com Michigan Chronicle presents: Michigan Chronicle presents:
ACHIEVE! ARISE DETROIT! NEIGHBORHOODS DAY Annual
The 7th annual ARISE Detroit! Neighborhoods Day will be held Saturday, Aug. 3, in Neighborhoods all over Detroit.
Fall School Choice Guideto host events of all kinds throughMore than 170 churches, block clubs and2013 community groups have registered 2013 Fall School Choice Guide and back to school events. out the day, including cleanups, health fairs,concerts, sports and youth activities To see a listing of all the events, go to the website www.AriseDetroit.org and click into the events list.
A few highlights... REBUILDING AND RESTORING NORTH END NEIGHBORHOOD REBUILD PROJECT: The project is centered on Philadelphia, east and west of Woodward in the North End. Work will be supervised by Life Remodeled and Handyman Ministries.
SIGNATURE EVENT FESTIVALS: There will be number of neighborhood festivals involving a range of activities and hundreds of people expected throughout the day at each event. BRINGING IN CHANGE BACK TO SCHOOL RALLY: NORTHEAST DETROIT Belmont Shopping Center, Dequindre at Eight Mile Road in northeast Detroit Noon-4 p.m.
Fall Into Greatness!
BLACK FAMILY DEVELOPMENT/MOHICAN ASSOCIATION: NORTHEAST DETROIT Reno/State Fair area of northeast Detroit in the Osborn Community. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. HABITAT FOR HUMANITY: FAR EAST SIDE Area around 4178 Lakepointe, 58205.
GRANDMONT ROSEDALE: NORTHWEST DETROIT
HELP OUR KIDS BACK TO SCHOOL PROJECT Adopted schools for Neighborhoods Day include, Chrysler Elementary, by the Chrysler Corp; Western International High School by Alternatives for Girls; Spain, by Detroit Regional Chamber’s Leadership Detroit XXXIV class; King High School, by W3R Consulting; Thirkell Elementary, by Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity; Priest and Blackwell schools, both by PNC Bank, Burton International, by Wayne State University, Pasteur Elementary school by Meijer
EDUCATION AND YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Many programs will focus on young people. They include:
UNIVERSITY COMMONS , JAZZ ON THE AVE NORTHWEST DETROIT Livernois Avenue between Seven Mile and Eight Mile Noon-6 p.m. THE GRATIOT SPLASH: LOWER EAST SIDE On the site of the former Joe Muer’s restaurant, Gratiot at Vernor near downtown Detroit 9a.m.-6 p.m. BRIGHTMOOR SIDEWALK ART FESTIVAL: FAR WEST SIDE Grand River at Lahser in northwest Detroit. 3 p.m-9 p.m. BACK PACK TECHNO MUSIC FESTIVAL ON BELLE ISLE Event starts at 8 a.m with a sunrise breakfast for kids goes until sundown. POP UP ART FESTIVAL: 100 WAYS TO LOVE DETROIT: WEST SIDE Located at Linwood at Calvert near Central High School Noon-4 p.m.
400+ 400+ Schools Schools
YOUTH SPORTS STEPS UP TO THE PLATE ON NEIGHBORHOODS DAY DETROIT TIGERS HOMETOWN BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS Parks for the tournament include Balduck Park, 5271 Canyon, 48236, Maheras Gentry Playfield, 12550 Avondale, , 48215,Stoepel Park Number 1, 14801 Westwood St., Detroit,, University of Detroit Mercy, 4001 McNichols Road, Detroit, MI 48221 ,Wayne State University, 5101 John C. Lodge, 48202, Woodbridge Community Center, 1200 W. Canfield St., 48201. Games 10 a.m.-6 p.m
Complete District Complete District Listing Listing
HOLLYWOOD GOLF CHAMPIONSHP : NORTHWEST DETROIT Palmer Park, Seven Mile at Woodward Tournament is from 2 p.m.-6 p.m. CHILDREN’S OLYMPICS: NORTHWEST DETROIT Ready, set, go! Hartford Memorial Baptist Church will host its 2nd Annual Children Olympics, for youth 8 to 18, at Lugar Park, located across from the church in northwest Detroit. DETROIT SPIRIT TOUCHES THE SUBURBS: Neighborhoods Day event will also be held in Highland Park and River Rouge. Inspired by ARISE Detroit! Neighborhoods Day, Peace Lutheran Church in Southfield has reformed under the name the Peace Community Spiritual Center under the banner of a new initiative called Sunrise Southfield. The church will hold a number of events and family activities to promote good will among people of all religious and ethnic persuasions.
Look out for the fall edition of ACHIEVE!NUMEROUS August 7, 2013 CLEANNEIGHBORHOOD Look out for the fall edition of ACHIEVE!UPS, August 7, 2013 HEALTH FAIRS, CHURCH ACTIVIFor advertising and sponsorship opportunities call 313.963.5522 ANNUAL COMMUNITY PARADE: TIES AND OTHER COMMUNITY SERVICE For advertising and sponsorship opportunities call 313.963.5522 NORTHWEST DETROIT PROJECTS CAN BE FOUND ON
SCHOLARSHIP HELP: The Detroit College Promise, created several years ago to provide scholarships to Detroit Public School League students, will sign students up for thousands of dollars in scholarship opportunities at Burnette Baptist Church, 16808 Schoolcraft.
MOTORCYCLE CLUB TOURS ON NEIGHBORHOODS DAY: The Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club, which has a history of giving scholarships to youth, will make several stops at Neighborhoods Day sites.
The parade starts at 9 am at Triangular Park, located at Fenkell and Biltmore, and proceed to Kelley Park where a community picnic will be held.
WWW.ARISEDETROIT.ORG
HIRAM E. JACKSON Publisher
A Real Times Newspaper 479 Ledyard – Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 963-5522 Fax 963-8788 e-mail:chronicle4@aol.com
JACKIE BERG Chief Marketing Officer BANKOLE THOMPSON Senior Editor SAMUEL LOGAN Publisher 1933-2011 JOHN H. SENGSTACKE Chairman-Emeritus 1912-1997 LONGWORTH M. QUINN Publisher-Emeritus 1909-1989
July 31 - August 6, 2013
Page B-4
Interrupting the school-to-prison pipeline By Judith Brown Dianis Salecia Johnson, age 6, grew frustrated in her Milledgeville, Ga., kindergarten class last year and erupted into a temper tantrum. Unfortunately, it’s something that mothers sometimes must confront with raising young children. But what happened next was not routine, nor should it be happening to Salecia or any other children. Creekside Elementary School called the police, who said they found Salecia on the floor of the principal’s office screaming and crying. Police said she had knocked over furniture that injured the principal. The African-American child was handcuffed, arrested and hauled to the local police station. She was held for more than hour before her parents were notified and charged with simple assault and damage to property, but didn’t have to go to court because she is a juvenile.
documented racial disparities nationally and in specific school districts. According to a 2005 report by “Advancement Project, Education on Lockdown: The Schoolhouse to Jailhouse Track,” Black and Latino students in Denver were 70 percent more likely to be disciplined (suspended, expelled, or given police tickets) than their White peers. There were no states where Black students were not suspended more often than their White peers. The easy answer is that Black and Latino students misbehave more than other students. However, research consistently shows that this is false. During a convening for “America Healing,” a racial equity initiative of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, a panel discussion this spring focused on examples where different sectors of the community have achieved some success interrupting the school-to-prison pipeline.
Jody Owens, director of the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Mississippi ofBut the ordeal has sefice, which filed a lawsuit verely impacted the child. against the district, asHer mother, Constance serted that “we are losing Ruff, says Salecia istraua generation”in Meridian, matized, having difficulty Selecia Johnson Miss., because of the way adjusting back to school children are needlessly inand maynever recover. Salecia, she says, has awoken at night screaming, “They’re troduced to the criminal justice system. coming to get me!” Sadly, her case is not Kids are pushed into police detention directly from the classroom.” an anomaly. Across the country, young people are being arrested for behavior that used to be solved through a trip to the principal’s office or the intervention of a counselor. In Florida, a 14-year-old was arrested and charged for throwing a pencil at another student and spent 21 days in jail. In New York, a 12-year-old was arrested for doodling “I love Abby and Faith” on her desk. In Chicago, 25 children, some as young as 11, were arrested for engaging in a food fight. Supporters of zero tolerance policies say being tough on any infraction creates strong incentives to behave. But the reality belies that myth and cries out for the implementation of common sense discipline polices that ensure that students are put on a pathway to career or college rather than the destructive criminal justice system. The Advancement Project, a multiracial civil rights organization based in Washington, DC, tracks the increasing encroachment of law enforcement and the juvenile justice system into American classrooms, particularly impacting students of color. The research has
Students referred to the Police Department for misbehavior are automatically arrested and sent to the juvenile justice system. There, these students are given probation requiring them to serve any school suspensions incarcerated in the juvenile detention center. One student spent 48 days in jail for wearing the wrong color socks. Youth who run afoul of school rules, not criminal law, are routinely handcuffed to a pole outside the school for the entire eight-hour school day. Data shows that zero tolerance policies result in higher dropout rates, lower academic achievement and young people being pushed into the criminal justice system – hence the term schoolto-prison pipeline. If quality education is to be a critical factor to the long-term success and independence of all children, there must be a myriad of innovative practices and partnerships between schools, families, communities, government and business to align and strengthen conditions that will break the pipeline.
Preventing domestic abusers and stalkers from accessing guns By Winnie Stachelberg, Arkadi Gerney and Chelsea Parsons While opinions may differ as to the scope of the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms, almost all Americans agree that criminals should not have access to guns. Congress recognized the need to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people more than 40 years ago when it passed the Gun Control Act of 1968, which prohibited felons and other dangerous individuals from owning guns. The Supreme Court has also sanctioned restrictions on gun ownership by such individuals, repeatedly holding in recent decisions that such federal and state laws to prohibit gun ownership by criminals and other dangerous individuals are well within the bounds of the Constitution. One group of people who are at a heightened risk of gun attacks is women who are targets of domestic violence and stalking. We know that intimate-partner violence is a pernicious crime that affects millions of women across the country. Women are more than threeand-a-half times as likely to be killed by an intimate partner than men. In 2005, 40 percent of female homicide victims nationwide were killed by a current or former intimate partner, and guns were used in more than half of those murders. The lethality of domestic-violence incidents — and therefore the risk to women — increases exponentially when a firearm is present in the home: Having a gun in the home increases the risk of homicide of an intimate partner by eight times compared to households without guns. This risk of homicide increases by 20 times compared to households without guns when there is a history of domestic violence in the family. Congress has previously recognized the unique dangers posed by domestic abusers with guns. In the mid-1990s it enacted legislation to ban domestic-vi-
olence misdemeanants and individuals subject to some domestic-violence restraining orders from buying or possessing guns. But the current laws do not go far enough to protect women from the dangers presented by batterers and stalkers with guns. Federal law that is currently designed to protect women from gun violence suffers from four key weaknesses: Background checks are not required on all gun sales, so domestic abusers prohibited from gun ownership can easily circumvent the gun-ownership ban by buying a gun from a private seller. The federal limits on domestic abusers are too narrow because they omit abusers in dating relationships and abusers subject to some emergency restraining orders. There is no federal ban on gun ownership for stalkers convicted of misdemeanor crimes and who are subject to restraining orders. Federal, state, and local authorities do not adequately enforce the laws already in place by disarming and prosecuting domestic abusers who violate the current laws and maintain possession of firearms. In 1994 Congress passed the Violence Against Women Act, a groundbreaking piece of legislation designed to protect victims of domestic violence, provide them with support and services, and ensure strong penalties for perpetrators. In recognition of the dangers posed by abusers with guns, one component of this comprehensive legislation was a ban on gun ownership by certain perpetrators of domestic violence. Under this provision, individuals subject to a restraining order that was issued after a hearing to protect an “intimate partner”—defined as a spouse or former spouse, a parent of a child in common, or a current or former co-habitant—are prohibited from buying or possessing firearms.
Profiling Black males, from Rodney King to Trayvon Martin By Sylvester Monroe Rodney Glen King’s apparent accidental death at age 47 has prompted a flood of media punditry about the legacy of a life rife with misfortune. It was young Glen, as he was called, who had discovered his father’s body in the family bathtub. Rodney Sr. reportedly drank himself to death when Rodney Jr. was in high school. Following his father’s penchant for alcohol, the younger King made a fateful wrong turn at age 25 — drinking and driving, and leading Los Angeles police officers on a high-speed chase that thrust him into an ill-fitting celebrity he never wanted or wore very well. King’s brutal videotaped beating seen around the world years before the advent of YouTube changed the course of his life. It also triggered events that altered how law enforcement and government officials handle complaints of excessive force and police brutality.The initial impact ofthe beating in March 1991 was to shine light on a Rodney King dark realm of routine police misconduct in Los Angeles and other cities. Six days of deadly rioting followed acquittals more than a year later on April 29 of the officers who beat King and led to sweeping reforms of the police department. A heralded commitment to community policing, increased civilian oversight and more enlightened department leadership, including appointment of two Black police chiefs, significantly cooled longstanding tinderbox relations between police and the African-American community. Less successful in Los Angeles and other cities nationwidehas beenelimination of the gross stereotyping, or profiling, of young Blacks as dangerous, drunk, drug-crazed ogres who can be controlled only with extreme force. Twenty years after the Los Angeles rioting, national attention is again focused on a racially-charged assault. This time, an overzealous community watch volunteer in Sanford, Fla., is charged in the shooting death of an unarmed black teenager, and initial police handling of the case has raised widespread concern. The King and Martin cases are markedly different in detail, especially in that Sanford police had nothing to do with Martin’s death. But unchanged in two decades is continued use of excessive force by law enforcement officers and others who seek, out of fear, to justify violent and often fatal encounters with Black youths and men. Such professed fear has been a major dynamic in practically every questionable case of excessive police force against young Blacks since the Watts riots of 1965 in Los Angeles. That fear factor played a key role in the King trial defense and in another verdict shortly before the city exploded in anger and violence in April 1992. The shocking acquittals of the police officers in the King trial came less than two weeks before Soon Ja Du, 51, a Korean store owner, received a 10-year suspended prison term, probation, a fine and community service for the shooting death of Latasha Harlins, a 15-year-old African-American. Du said Harlins was stealing a bottle of orange juice and shot her in the back of the head. The incident was videotaped. Nine years later, in April 2001, rioting was sparked in Cincinnati when a police officer shot and killed Timothy Thomas, a 19-year-old African-American. Five months later, the officer was acquitted. Like Trayvon Martin, Thomas was unarmed. He was shot while running away from the officer, who was trying to arrest him. Officers in the King beating mounted much of their defense for striking King more than 50 times by saying that the 6-foot-4 King, who weighed more than 200 pounds, refused to obey commands to stay on the ground, and that they feared for their safety. This week, attorneys for George Zimmerman, the white Hispanic neighborhood watch volunteer charged with second-degree murder in Martin’s death, released a police video in which he reenacted what he says happened during
the fatal encounter. Zimmerman says he feared for his life after Martin reached for Zimmerman’s gun, and told him, “You’re going to die.” According to Zimmerman, he shot Martin in self-defense under Florida’s controversial “stand your ground” law that gives citizens the right to use deadly force if they fear for their lives. Martin’s parents contend that Zimmerman was the aggressor and pursued their unarmed son, who was walking home from a convenience store through the gated Sanford community that Zimmerman patrolled. They say Zimmerman racially profiled the teenager, followed and confronted him despite being told not to by a 911 operator whom Zimmerman called to report a suspicious black man. Before and after the King beating, there have been numerous incidents of excessive police force against Black men by police officers and others who invoked versions of the fear-factor defense. As recently as 2009, a grisly police assault was captured Trayvon Martin on videotape in Oakland, Calif. A transit police officer shot and killed Oscar Grant, 22, an unarmed black shownlying on a train platform at the officer’s feet. The officer was convicted of involuntary manslaughter but acquitted of second-degree murder and voluntary manslaughter. Ironically, on the day Rodney King died, Black and Latino community leaders gathered at a rally in New York City to protest the city’s stop-and-frisk policy that they say has led to escalated profiling of young Blacks and Latinos, and increasing allegations of excessive force and brutality by New York police officers. The rally followed a report this year by the New York Civil Liberties Union showing that the New York City Police Department conducted 685,724 stopand-frisk searches in 2011. More than 86 percent of those targeted by police were Blacks and Latinos. “What happened to me and what’s happened to others can still happen,” King said in an interview with Ebony Magazine in April, shortly before the 20th anniversary of the rioting. “The police are still killing people. I am just glad I was one of those who the camera was on.” King often said he wanted his epitaph to read, “Can we all just get along?” Nervous and visibly shaken, he spoke those words at a 1992 news conference immediately after rioting erupted. The answer to his question may well be influenced by the outcome of the expected trial in the Martin shooting. This time, it is not a police officer but a private citizen who took it on himself to patrol the streets to protect his community from what he viewed as potentially dangerous intruders. How the Sanford Police Department handled that shooting will be as important as actual facts of the case and a verdict. In the King case and others, Blacks felt that their voices and concerns about police misconduct went largely unheeded. When the officers were acquitted even though the videotape clearly seemed to show excessive force, Blacks in Los Angeles took it as one more slap in the face. Similarly, the Martin family and African-Americans across the nation were outraged that Zimmerman was not arrested immediately and charged. When city officials rejected Police Chief Bill Lee’s offer to resign, the situation was aggravated. Lee, who had stepped aside temporarily in May and was on paid leave,was fired on June 20. Whatever the outcome, if Sanford’s black community and African-Americans elsewhere do not believe that the investigation and expected trial were conducted fairly and that Black profiling has been addressed adequately, the answer to Rodney King’s plaintive plea will undoubtedly be, “Not yet.” Whether Trayvon Martin will become the Rodney King of his generation remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: The ghost of Rodney King will loom large over the trial of George Zimmerman.
community
July 31-Aug.6, 2013 Page B-5
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
Graduates aim high
Week’s Best
The June 2013 graduates of Covenant House Academy - Detroit are moving on to higher aspirations and new goals. Of the 81 graduates, 79% will be going on to community colleges or universities, five students will be going into the military, three graduates are going directly into the workforce, and only five are undecided on what path they will follow next. That is pretty impressive, and Covenant House Academy is very proud of these young people.
Detroit campuses. To date 846 students have graduated from Covenant House Academy.
Many of these students were former dropouts or behind in credits, but chose to persevere to obtain their high school diploma. A number of the students both worked and attended classes, and several had to raise children of their own while in school. All rose above their circumstances to achieve a better foundation for their futures. For some, they are the first in their family to even graduate high school. For others, they will be the first in their families to go on to higher education.
Covenant House Academy - Grand Rapids held orientation Thursday, July 18. The school is open in a temporary site until its permanent location’s renovations are complete. Thirty-five students are enrolled at the new school.
LOTTERY
In the 2011/2012 school year, Grand Rapids reported a 41% graduation rate, an unacceptable rate. Community officials were concerned about the future of its young people and the community overall. They were aware of Covenant’s successful model aimed to address the dropout epidemic in Detroit and came to us for assistance.
“These students are the most vulnerable population,” said Sam Joseph, executive director of Covenant House Michigan, who said they are mission focused. “We are their family. If they need additional support beyond academics, we will find that for them within the community.”
The mission of Covenant House Academy is to provide high school dropouts and at-risk youth with new oppor- Covenant House Michigan, a nontunities to earn a high school diploma, profit in Detroit serving homeless and improve their life skills and receive the at-risk youth, spearheaded the creation academic foundation to continue on of Covenant House Academy as a means to higher education or post-secondary to prevent homelessness by addressing skills training. Aided with compassion- a root cause. …A few of the ate and caring staff, the schools prevent Strategic owned Staffing TheSolutions fouris a woman Covenant House AcadeIT Consulting and Solutions Company poverty, underachievement and home- headquartered in Detroit with are over 1,600 my campuses authorized by Grand employees placed internationally. S3 provides lessness while offering hope, encourthe following services: Information Technology and run by Youth Valley State University Consulting & Staffing Augmentation, Vendor agement and a better chance for future Management Programs, Customized Project Vision Solutions, a Detroit based nonSolutions and Executive Search Services. Your success. Business, Technology and Community Partner profit management company. celebrating over 20 years in Business. information on Strategic Staffing Over 900 students attend the threeFor moreSolutions (S ) please visit
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“During this one-day class certified childbirth educators will teach participants how to practice breathing and relaxation techniques, including Lamaze,” said Maryanne Kenerson, community health education coordinator, Beaumont Health System.
Participants are encouraged to complete the birthing class four weeks before their scheduled delivery date. Beaumont Community Health Education will offer a condensed class focusing on labor and birth for expectant parents. The new, six-hour class includes stages of labor and birth; medical procedures; cesarean birth; and comfort measures for labor and the support person’s role.
“Understanding Childbirth Express Class” is a single-session program offered on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. at Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak and Beaumont Hospital, Troy. The cost is $80 per couple or expectant mom and support person. Reg-
Beaumont’s Community Health Education department offers many educational programs for expectant and new parents at its hospitals in Grosse Pointe, Royal Oak and Troy, its medical centers in Macomb and Oakland counties, and other locations.
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Detroit school wins a renovated library for the new school year Students at the Coleman A. Young Elementary School in Detroit will return to school this fall with a new library as winners of the “School Makeover” contest presented by a partnership between the Detroit Pistons and Farm Bureau Insurance.
ance firmly believes in supporting safe and clean learning environments for our youth. Coleman Elementary staff, parents, and students, have not only exhibited a need in this area, but have the dedication and commitment to keep it preserved,” said Vic Verchereau, Farm Bureau Insurance vice president of Marketing.
More than 60 schools from across the state of Michigan entered the contest. Elementary and middle schools submitted at least four images of their school’s library or gymnasium to be considered in the selection process. The newly renovated library at the
“We are proud to help them in achieving their goal of providing students with an organized, clean and safe media room and library. At Farm Bureau Insurance our mission is to protect the people of Michigan from the risks of everyday life and we couldn’t be more proud to present a program that helps us to do just that.”
Young school on Detroit’s west side will be unveiled during a special ribbon-cutting ceremony in September.
The Detroit Pistons have renovated 29 facili-
“Farm Bureau Insur-
ties into Live, Learn, and Play Centers at schools, shelters, and hospitals in Michigan to date. The Coleman A. Young school library — with new paint, carpet, furniture, technology, and themed graphics and decorations — will make it 30! “We congratulate the students, teachers and principals at Coleman A. Young, because the Detroit Pistons organization knows how important it is to learn in an environment that makes them feel more productive,” said Dennis Mannion, Palace Sports & Entertainment CEO and president. “We’re thrilled to have Farm Bureau Insurance provide this opportunity for this deserving school.”
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VOLUME 74 – Number 26
March 9-15, 2011
479 Ledyard • Detroit MI 48201
edunomics: Read Less,
WHAT’S INSIDE sampson appointed (A-8) Mariners Inn recently announced the promotion of David Sampson to the position of chief executive officer. He has been with Mariners Inn since 2002 and held several positions.
Pay More
mubarak played religion card (A-2) Ousted Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak portrayed himself as a paradigm of stability in a country he once described as a “powder keg” of sectarian unrest. Yet far from promoting stability, his regime may have actually been the source of much of the religious strife.
Home repair Program (B-1): Rebuilding Together Detroit (RTD) is seeking applications from low-income homeowners in Southwest Detroit who are in need of minor home repair assistance.
Academic excellence honored (c-1): The Final Five Elite High School Football Players were recently lauded for their Athletic and Scholastic Excellence at the 20th Annual Franklin D. Watkins Awards held at the Omni Hotel in Los Angeles.
new tax credits (c-6): A new 25 percent state Small Business Investment Tax Credit, designed to encourage investments in start-up and early-stage Michigan technology companies, is aiming to help Michigan entrepreneurs secure capital and reduce risks associated with a new business or novel technology.
The motortown Revue (d-1): The Motortown Revue, the legendary shows that toured the nation by bus for almost the entirety of the ’60s, is recalled by someone who never missed a revue and, like so many other Motown fans, cherishes the memory.
Bankole Thompson CHRONICLE SENIOR EDITOR
The current state of the Detroit Public Schools is a mockery of Brown v Board of Education and it exposes the deep inequities in education. Just because your child is not enrolled in the Detroit Public Schools does not mean you shouldn’t be concerned about the fate of the district before it heads toward implosion.
COMMENTARY
like Detroit where a national reading report card places the city at number 56 out of the 75 largest metropolitan cities in the U.S. surveyed. That means literacy is shamefully low in the city and we are doing little or nothing to change the deplorable situation. The latest study conducted by Central Connecticut State University, according to Data Driven Detroit, ranks the “culture and resources for reading” and it examines not wheth-
Your ability to get the Bankole Thompson best education for your child should not be based on geography, income or ethnicity but, rather, on the simple principle that every child regardless of their background should have an empowering education that equips them for a brighter future. Each child should have access to a meaningful education that would not leave them trailing behind in the dust children in Japan, India, China and other countries move ahead. But that is not the case in places
er people can read, but whether they actually do read.
313.963.5522
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Coming Soon White House XChange
Our readers take center stage on national issues Following his series of sit-down interviews with President Obama, and his successful 2010 interview-based book “Obama and Black Loyalty Vol. 1,” editor Bankole Thompson is upping the ante with the start of a new special report “White House XChange” March 30. The report will deal with issues tied to Detroit and Michigan that the Obama administration is tackling. It will introduce readers to issues raised in White House media conference calls. The report will invite our readers to weigh in on the debate about what the Obama administration is doing by having their opinions and views reflected in the report.
Detroit’s 56th place in the 2010 study is the same spot it occupied in a similar report in 2005. The highest rank the city got was 50th in 2007. Washington, D.C., was rated the most well-read city in the nation and following that were Seattle, Minneapolis, Atlanta, Pittsburgh, San Francisco, St. Paul, Denver, Portland, St. Louis, Cincinnati and Boston. Its is also noteworthy that these cities are among the most admired places in the nation and they have, in fact, become meccas for those seeking greener pastures. When young people are making the exodus from the state, more than likely they are moving to one of the cities mentioned in this report. These cities are not only a paragon of a reading culture, they also offer other incentives that we are not offering in this city. There is no possible way we can bank on attracting young families to the city if basic amenities like recreational centers are not available on a full scale. When the educational system does not have the public confidence
See edunomics page A-4
Jim Murray
Accelerating the speed of business growth AT&T commits $19 billion to support area business growth By C.L. Price Area businesses sloshing through Michigan’s sluggish economic recovery will soon receive much-needed infrastructure support, thanks to global communications leader AT&T’s network improvement plans announced last week. The improvements — to expand backhaul, enable 4G speeds, increase mobile broadband capacity and upgrade hundreds of cell sites — are predicted to accelerate the pace of area business growth. Why invest now?
Gov. Snyder keynotes Pancakes & Politics Gov. Rick Snyder kicked off the Michigan Chronicle’s Pancakes & Politics season at the Detroit Athletic Club on March 3 with a candid conversation built around reinventing Michigan. At left, Snyder chats with Curtis Ivery, Wayne County Community College Chancellor, Betty Brooks, community leader, and Shaun Wilson, Vice President, Director of Client and Community Relations, PNC Bank, and Ric DeVore, Regional President, PNC Bank. See page C-7 for photo highlights.
“We feel very confident about Detroit’s economic recovery,” stated Jim Murray, president of AT&T Michigan. “As a consequence, we’re committed to making sizeable investments in this
See AT&T page A-4
WCCCD is largest urban community college, with record enrollment numbers Daylight Saving BEGINS on
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Curtis Ivery
Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD) is the largest urban community college in Michigan, with record enrollment numbers for the spring 2011 semester. Nearly 32,000 students registered for credit classes at all five of the District locations and online. Additionally, the District expects more than 40,000 non-credit students to register as well for a total of nearly 72,000 served in all programs. WCCCD, the multi-campus district serving 32 communities in Southeast Michigan, has seen exponential growth as degree and certificate programs have been expanded, infrastructure improved, and
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investments in students, services and technologies increased. “In this economy, post secondary education and training is the ticket to competing in today’s changing workforce. Access to higher education-especially community colleges--is critical,” said Dr. Curtis Ivery, chancellor. “WCCCD is an integral economic and social catalyst to the health and welfare of this region and state.” A recent economic impact study reported that WCCCD’s students generate more than $122 million in taxable income annually to the region and state. Every dollar that is invested in WCCCD returns
$22.80 in benefits to all Michigan residents. Having been recognized as one of the fastest growing community colleges in the nation and the largest urban community college in Michigan, WCCCD was forced to cap enrollment during the spring 2010 semester. This year, under the direction of Dr. Ivery, WCCCD lifted the enrollment cap to make certain that no student was turned away in spite of WCCCD’s funding challenges. WCCCD gives students the opportunity to train in emerging technology and high demand fields, allowing them to become competent professionals helping to position the
state for vibrant growth and a strong economic future. Community colleges across the nation face difficult decisions in a climate of limited resources. The commitment of WCCCD in assuring that the doors to educational opportunities remain open is a direct result of the determination of faculty, staff and administrators. “Our students and all those we serve need us to work as hard as we can for them. If we can’t be the difference between success and a future of limited options, we are not living up to the mission and vision of this institution,” said Dr. Ivery.
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HARRISON W. MUNSON General Practice specializing in: • CRIMINAL DEFENSE • CRIMINAL APPEALS • BANKRUPTCY • REAL ESTATE • DIVORCE • CONTRACTS • PROBATE Harrison W. Munson, P.C. First National Building 660 Woodward Ave., Suite 1545 Detroit, MI 48226-3516 (313) 965-0555 Telephone (313) 965-0557 Facsimile (248) 276-9327 Nights & Weekends
July 31-Aug. 6, 2013 Page B-6 THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE praiseconnect.com Williams Chaple MBC hosts minister’s 15th Annual Singers, Musicians seventh pastorial anniversary & Arts Conference tions. Participants are from such cities, near and far, as Toledo, Chicago, Los Angeles, Alabama, New Jersey and Florida.
The conference was designed to help cultivate the gifts and talents of youths and those who inspire to move forward in their career in music, whether it is singers, praise dancers, gospel rappers or instrumentalists.
Dorinda Clark-Cole Dr. Dorinda Clark-Cole has made a great name for herself locally and nationally by spreading the gospel, which is the good news of Jesus Christ. Being the daughter of the late Mattie Moss Clark, who is a legend in the Church of God in Christ (C.O.G.I.C) and a member of the Grammy Award-winning Clark Sisters, and also a solo artist and evangelist, Dr. Cole has answered the mandate on her life by serving in various capacities in the church as well as the community August 14-17, the 15th Annual Singers Musicians & Arts Conference will locate to its new home for this year in Toledo, Ohio. The organization was founded by Dr. Clark-Cole. The Singers Musicians & Arts Conference is held monthly at various loca-
With the formation of this ministry, Dr. Cole-Clark has been blessed to launch a monthly 3K Prayer Walk at Northland Mall. Dr. Cole has committed her life to prayer to God by praying and walking for those things that seem to hopeless, such as crime, poverty and for the great city that she grew up in, Detroit. Dr. Clark-Cole’s believes that in order to make a difference in anything, love is the key. Her mission has been to express the love of God through her music ministry, evangelism and through the Singers, Musicians & Arts Conference. The decision to move the conference to Toledo was made by Dr. Clark-Cole because she believed it would broaden the conference as well as make more connections with others outside of Detroit. Dr. Clark-Cole’s prayer is that people will be saved, touched, healed and delivered, and if they are she will feel that she has lived up to her calling.
Honoree Pastor James C. Jones (seated, left), Bishop Edgar L. Vann and O’ Neil D. Swanson, CEO/president, Swanson Funeral Homes, Inc. Standing from left are First Lady Jeanette Jones, Dr. Nellie Williams, Deacon Board chairman Jeff Ridgeway and Eve Ridgeway. The seventh pastorial anniversary for Pastor James C. Jones and First Lady Jeanette Jones took place recently at the Roostertail Banquet Hall. O’ Neil D.
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For more information regarding the Singers, Musicians and Arts Conference, please visit www.nationalsmac.com.
Celebrating a century tist Church in Bessemer, Alabama. under Pastor Charlie White. In 1948, she moved to Detroit and she joined New Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in 1953, under the late Pastor J.S. Williams, then the late Pastor J.L. Newby Ill, and presently under Pastor Jimmie T. Wafer. She has been a faithful member of New Mt. Zion for 60 years.
Mrs. Essie Mae Halas-Steverson was born July 10,1913 to Kizzie and June Hales, in Hope Hull, Alabama. She grew up in the fields of Alabama and attended schools in that state. She was married to the late Robert Charles Steverson for 73 years. They had nine children. Mrs. Halas-Steverson began her Christian journey in 1928 at the age of 15, on a Thursday at Rock Creek Baptist Church, under Pastor J.S. Jarrett. She later moved to Shady Grove Bap-
Mrs. Halas-Steverson’s faith in the Lord is strong. She exhibits the qualities and attributes of a true Christian. She shows love, joy, peace, goodness, kindness and patiencr. This has been true throughout her life. She finds joy in helping others. She loves her family, friends and neighbors. Her home was always a warm and welcoming place for family and friends. Essie Mae Halas-Steverson is a strong individual and is not afraid of the future. She speaks with a gentle wisdom. She is always looking after her family’s wants and needs, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is a praying mother and loves to read her Bible, talk and sing to the Lord.
Swanson was the master of ceremonies and Bishop Edgar L. Vann, pastor of Second Ebenezer Church, was the keynote speaker.
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“THE BATTLE AT(Come NEW BETHEL” and get your blessing!) Sunday, August 25, 2013 Doors open at 5 PM Program 6 PM
Church seeks new pastor “Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it.” (Psalm 127:1)
A current résumé which includes a summary of relevant ministry, professional, and educational experience.
New Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church of Highland Park, established in 1952, is seeking a spirit-filled candidate, called of God, to fill the position of full-time pastor and to serve as the spiritual leader of its congregation.
Copy of ministerial license and ordination certificate
New Mt. Moriah Baptist Church is in need of a pastor who will be responsible to God and the church, will proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, teach the Bible, provide Christian leadership in all areas of the church, and engage in pastoral care of the congregation. Also, the pastor is to be responsible for the overall leadership of the day-today operations of the church, services, membership and promoting the spiritual interests and growth of the church. The minimum qualifications for the new pastoral position are as follows: Bachelor’s degree consisting of a strong concentration in Theology/Biblical Studies.
Must be ordained.
Five years of pastoral experience.
All interested and qualified persons must submit an initial candidate package consisting of copies of the following information: A New Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church application which can be found on the Michigan Chronicle Praise Connect website, praiseconnect. com.
Copy of degree(s)
Four recommendation letters (at least two clergy) Please submit the initial candidate package by mail to: New Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church
Pastoral Search Team
13100 Woodward Ave.
Highland Park, MI 48203
The deadline for all information to be postmarked or submitted is September 30, 2013. Any candidate package postmarked after September 30, 2013, will not be considered. For additional information/questions, please contact the church office at (313) 869-0190 or via e-mail at www. newmtmoriah@sbcglobal.net. All information submitted will be treated as confidential. Additional information may be requested and/or required. Final candidates must consent to a reference check, criminal history background check, drug test and credit and financial history review.
Pastor Shirley Caesar The Clark Sisters Dorinda, Jackie, Karen and Twinkie.
J.J. Hairston of Chicago, IL and Youthful Praise
Others to be announced Buffet: 5 PM – until — Featuring ReeRee’s Hot Water Cornbread, Baked Chicken and Dressing, Black Eye Peas with Okra, Spaghetti and Meatballs, Gumbo, Fried Fish, Mac and Cheese, Aretha’s Ox Tail Soup, Homemade Ice Cream, Peach Cobbler, Banana Pudding.
Rev. Wendell Anthony Pastor of Fellowship Chapel
Rev. Robert Smith, Pastor of New Bethel Baptist Church
Tanya Blount “His Eye Is On The Sparrow”
Rev. Mother – Hostess
NEW BETHEL BAPTIST CHURCH 8430 C. L. FRANKLIN BLVD.
(FREE ADMISSION – LIGHTED PARKING, SECURITY)
July 31 - Aug. 6, 2013 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Page B-7
Page B-8 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • July 31 - Aug. 6, 2013
Page B-8 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • July 31 - Aug. 6, 2013
SECTION C
BUSINESS Powered by Real Times Media
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BCBSM’s Connect 2Bfit site uses social networking to spark employee wellness programs
Detroit architectural firm soars to national and international heights
By Cindy Bjorkquist Let’s face it: It’s tough to be healthy. With busy schedules and tight budgets, it can be difficult to eat right, get regular exercise and see the doctor regularly. Yet research shows that friends, family and coworkers influence our health and that working with them can be a more effective way to sustain healthy behavior change.
July 31 - Aug. 6, 2013
Greektown Casino Valet Interior Lobby Space
In that spirit, Blue Cross has launched Connect 2BfitSM, a new social wellness site that helps users improve their health by engaging with and challenging others. The site is a new feature of BlueHealthConnection, BCBSM’s wellness and care management program, and is available to select individual members enrolled in certain plans, and employers. Connect 2Bfit uses social networking technology and game mechanics to lower health care costs and improve the health of members through peer motivation, support and accountability. A fouryear study found that social well-
Detroit School of Arts
By Donald James In a study evaluating the use of a similar social wellness program in a 12-week exercise and weight-loss campaign, participants were more likely to achieve a 5 percent weight loss when they were part of a team. ness programs like Connect 2Bfit helped members better manage their chronic conditions and lowered health care costs by $937 per person and generated $1,235 in annual productivity savings per person. In a study evaluating the use of a similar social wellness program in a 12-week exercise and weight-loss campaign, participants were more likely to achieve a 5 percent weight loss when they were part of a team, and the likelihood of achieving a clinically significant weight loss increased further with more social support. Connect 2Bfit allows users to set health goals, track their progress, build a supportive network and join fun health and wellness challenges that focus on exercise, nutrition and life balance.
It features: ■ Robust social networking tools, including mobile integration ■ Individual and team-based wellness challenges and competitions ■ User-generated wellness challenges ■ Healthy goal setting, fitness tracking and health conversations ■ Fitness device integration and extensive data reporting Once a member joins, he/she can invite friends and family to join their network, even if they’re not Blue Cross members, for free and with full use of the site’s tools. Employers who are wondering if social wellness is right for your workforce can contact Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan for more information, or visit bcbsm.com.
BlueCross BlueShield of Michigan
known to consistently deliver high-quality services that exceed other industry firms owned by members of other ethnicities.
For almost two decades, the names Rainy Hamilto, Jr. and Kent Anderson have been synonymous with the elevation of Hamilton Anderson Associates (HAA), one of the nation’s most intriguing and progressive architectural firms. As co-founders and principals of the downtown Detroit firm, they have given leadership to the rendering of services in architecture, landscape architecture, planning, interior design and urban design. Detroiters don’t have to look far to see the firm’s prolific work. A short list of the company’s many Motor City projects includes MGM Grand Detroit, Greektown Casino, Detroit School of Arts High School, Wayne State University’s Queen Lillian Medical Offices and Welcome Center, the new Mumford High School, Youthville Child Development Center, Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority Public Dock and Terminal, Wayne County Metro Airport’s North Terminal, and the Washington Blvd. Streetscape transformation. The firm is also the strategic framework planner for the Detroit Future City project, a massive blueprint initiative that advises city stakeholders on how the Motor City will look in the future on many levels. In addition to its multitude of projects in Detroit and other parts of Michigan, HAA has established offices in New Orleans, Louisiana and Nevada. Projects in New Orleans include the famous Louis Armstrong Park Congo Square and the renovation of the historic Booker T. Washington High School; projects in Las Vegas include MGM Resorts International CityCenter (mixed use development). HAA is also working on a renovation project for a major hotel chain in Utah. Internationally speaking, HAA’s planning and design projects have included the PI River Water Front in Lu’an City, Anhui, China. The company has also rendered services in Dubai, and is currently looking to do work in Africa.
Hamilton explained the company’s uniqueness: “The combination of architecture and landscape architecture services offered under one roof makes us unique. We look at those two primary disciplines as leading any design efforts. We just don’t look at designing a building, but look at it holistically. We zoom out to see how our projects can fit into the surrounding community and environment.” A native of Detroit, Hamilton recalled his early days as a youth when he fell in love with drawing, painting, science, drafting and building model structures. As he grew older, he realized that becoming an architect would be his life’s work. After graduating from Cass Technical High School, he attended the University of Detroit-Mercy where he earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture. After working for an architecture firm for 12
Rainy Hamilton Jr.
MSU Wells Hall Presentation Space
While other architecture firms offer somewhat similar services, the onetwo punch of Hamilton and Anderson brings a unique blend of creative juices, outside-the-box designs, and the ability to deliver the “wow” factor to every project. HAA, one of the nation’s largest African-American owned architectural firms, is
MGM Grand Detroit Tap Sports Bar
See ARCHITECTURE page C-2
Washington Blvd - Streetscape
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July 31- Aug. 6, 2013
Architecture
MSU Wells Hall
years, where he met Anderson, the two decided that they would venture out on their own. Thus, Hamilton Anderson Associates was born in 1994.
Anderson, who hails from the Upper Peninsula, has been called a landscape architect extraordinaire. He is a graduate of Michigan State University’s Department of Landscape Architecture and has received several awards for his professional work. Anderson was a key reason why in 2007, HAA was the recipient of the inaugural Firm of the Year Award, given by the Michigan Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects.
WMU Central Campus Mall – Sangren Hall Site
Hamilton is also extraordinary in his field of expertise, and is highly regarded among his peers. He is an active member of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), and has served as the local chapter’s president. In addition, he has won the organization’s most prestigious National Building Design Award for the last four years. In the early 2000s, he served as president of the Detroit Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, making him the first African-American to serve in that high-level position. Hamilton
summarizes
Page C-2
From page C-1
the synergy between himself and Anderson: “Our diversity in background, education and professional experience is blended with solid experience when working on projects ranging from small scale city parks, to technologically sophisticated new arts high schools, regional master plans and multibillion dollar urban design plans. We are not specialists, but believers in the merit of well-informed, broad professional experience – that when brought together – will form the basis of superior design.” For Hamilton Anderson Associates and its 60-plus employees, the beat goes on. Hamilton said that regardless of how fast the firm grows, and how many markets the company expands to, HAA will not abandon Detroit. “We are happy that we have helped lay the foundation for Detroit’s growth,” said Hamilton, who is a lifetime Detroit resident. “I think in five years, you won’t recognize Detroit because of the growth and transformation it will have undergone. I know that Hamilton Anderson Associates plans to be here to be a part of the city’s exciting future. We are not going anywhere.”
Free Bizgrid shows Detroit’s entrepreneurial resources The Detroit Business Support Network has announced the launch of the BizGrid, an infographic designed to help Detroit entrepreneurs navigate the landscape of organizations providing business assistance within the city. The BizGrid can be found at www.detroitbizgrid. com. The BizGrid features 54 organizations offering services ranging from business planning and strategy to real estate assistance, funding, co-working space and more. Its crisp, simple design enables an entrepreneur to find names and contact information for assistance organizations based on the entrepreneur’s business stage and needs.
A committee of the Detroit Business Support Network consisting of Bizdom, D:hive, the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, InsYght, and TechTown directed the BizGrid’s design, content development and production with the support of the New Economy Initiative of Southeast Michigan. The committee drew on its members’ day-to-day interface with entrepreneurs and invited input from business owners who represent the BizGrid’s target user base. “Entrepreneurs need to know there is a growing network of support for them, and have ways to access that network,” said David Egner, executive director, New Economy Initiative. “When you
see the BizGrid, you begin to recognize not only the support that is available, but that this is a resource users can come back to over and over as their business grows.” The BizGrid will evolve as the Detroit entrepreneurial ecosystem shifts and new services come to market. Print copies of the inaugural edition are available free of charge at D:hive, TechTown and other organizations across the city of Detroit. About the Detroit Business Support Network The Detroit Business Support Network is a network convened by the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, consisting
of over 40 organizations across the city of Detroit. The Network is working to deliver efficient and effective business services to create a business-friendly environment for both start-up
and existing businesses. This collaborative effort is designed to create vibrant commercial districts, a strong downtown and growth in competitive business clusters.
Michigan Chronicle presents:
ACHIEVE! 2013 Fall School Choice Guide
400+ Schools
Fall Into Greatness!
Complete District Listing
Look out for the fall edition of ACHIEVE! August 7, 2013 For advertising and sponsorship opportunities call 313.963.5522
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July 31-Aug. 6, 2013
Page C-3
Economic Development Corp. gives preliminary approval to $55 million mixed use project on the east riverfront The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) of the City of Detroit has approved the preliminary terms of a deal with McCormack Baron Salazar (MBS) to build a 300-unit residential and retail development along Atwater St. at the Dequindre Trail.
MBS to begin due diligence and an application for financing from the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The HUD participation will allow a portion of the apartments to be available for families meeting HUD income thresholds. Goldman Sachs Urban Investment Group is also providing equity capital for the project, Invest Detroit is providing a subordinated loan, and Michigan Economic Development Corporation is also supporting the project.
MBS plans to spend $55 million building Rivertown, Phase One as a series of low-rise apartment structures along both Atwater and Franklin streets. between the Dequindre Trail Greenway and Riopelle St. The site is adjacent to the State of Michigan’s Outdoor Adventure and Discovery Center, currently under construction at Atwater St. and the Dequindre Trail. Phase Two of the plan would build an additional 200 housing units on the vacant property extending along Atwater St. west of Riopelle St. The EDC owns most of the property involved and would transfer it to the developer if it can meet the other terms of the agreement. It is also offering a loan to help the developer with implementation costs.
Jackson said, “Make no mistake, we have created a new culture of collaboration in Detroit. When an economic development opportunity arises we know we can count on strong participation from private, public and philanthropic organizations. That’s a transformation as important as any other.” The EDC owns several prime redevelopment properties in the East Riverfront District, and it
Illustration credit: Courtesy Urban Design Associates.
George W. Jackson, president and CEO of Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, which managed negotiations on behalf of the EDC, said, “It is time to reignite the redevelopment of the East Riverfront, and we’re excited that a quality developer has recognized the opportunities here. McCormack Baron Salazar is a firm with a solid reputation, and we are confident that it will lead others to the prime real estate we have along the Detroit River.” Richard Baron, chairman and CEO of MBS, said, “I’m a Detroit native, and it’s good to be home again to participate in the revitalization of a great city. We have a project that takes advantage of one of its most valuable assets, the Detroit River, as well as all the investments in the state park and RiverWalk that are literally a few steps from our door.” The EDC assembled the property, demolished structures, and has made $8 million in road and other infrastructure
improvements around the property. Wayne County has supported the project with assistance preparing the site for redevelopment. “This project is proof
that collaboratively pooling our resources brings in positive outcomes for the people of Detroit and Wayne County as a whole,” said County Executive Robert Ficano. “We’re glad to have contributed $200,000 to
complete the environmental report that helped developers determine the viability of the EDC’s land on the east riverfront.” The EDC vote today allows
manages the master plan for the district, which guides the redevelopment and acquisition of property for residential, commercial, and related uses, plus park and recreational opportunities.
COMESHOP IN THE D
@ CITY LOFT AND THE DETROIT SHOPPE
Shop at more than 40 mini versions of your favorite Somerset Collection stores in downtown Detroit! 1261 Woodward Avenue (between Grand River and State) Friday, July 26 - Saturday, August 24 From 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays
The retail shop showcases all things Detroit related; celebrating the people, places and iconic brands of the Motor City! 1201 Woodward Avenue (corner of Woodward and State) Friday, July 26 - Saturday, August 24 From 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays
Parking is available at Premier Parking Garage on Woodward between Gratiot and Grand River. For more information visit facebook.com/somersetcollectioncityloft
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July 31-Aug. 6, 2013
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Viewing trends from coast to coast
By Cheryl Pearson-McNeil Have I told you how much I love being part of the cutting edge research of the latest and greatest in technology and how consumer trends and behaviors impact that technology; or how much I especially love sharing that knowledge with you? It is empowering to know that the tech savvy world we live in continues to evolve at rapid speeds, largely because of our preferences as consumers. It’s interesting, too, that our tastes and trends vary, not only by our rich diversity of race, gender and age, but by where we live in the country. Nielsen recently released its first ever Local Watch Report, which explores the media consumption trends of U.S. consumers, depending on where they live. You all know that I’m always saying we are spoiled rotten because we can now entertain ourselves with whatever we want to watch – whenever, wherever and however we want to watch it. According to the latest Nielsen insights, the cross-platform, or multiple viewing options we have gets even more specific by region. Let’s begin with traditional TV, which is still the way most of us watch our favorite programming. Viewership on this medium is actually up in
several markets over the last year. As a group, Blacks log more TV viewing hours, about six and a half hours a day, (including both live TV and DVR playback) than any other demographic. But, what’s also interesting is the viewing time, detailed in what area you live in the United States. The leading cities in live TV consumption in daily hours and minutes are: Pittsburgh (five hours, 28 minutes, up 21 minutes from 2012); St. Louis (five hours, 23 minutes, up 15 minutes from 2012); Baltimore (five hours, 19 minutes, up eight minutes from 2012); Philadelphia (five hours, 18 minutes, and that’s down 11 minutes from 2012) and Detroit (five hours, 15 minutes, up six minutes from 2012). Consumers are watching the least amount of TV in San Francisco (two hours, 57 minutes, down eight minutes from 2012); followed by Los Angeles (three hours, 39 minutes, down 15 minutes from 2012); Denver (three hours, 45 minutes, down 11 minutes from 2012); Seattle (three hours 50 minutes, down 24 minutes from 2012) and Minneapolis (four hours, also down 24 minutes from 2012). When we talk traditional TV, we also have to keep in mind the other times-shifted choices. In addition to live TV, DVR playback, VOD (video on demand) and viewing over-the-top content (video delivered via the Internet) are also measured. Let’s get back to that over-the-top content viewing for a minute. Smart TV (also known as connected or hybrid TV, a television set that integrates the use of the Internet or is connected to a set-top box (signal receiver), Blu-Ray player or game console) ownership
is experiencing some growth in popularity. The largest penetration of these Smart TVs with their over-the-top video streaming capabilities is in San Francisco, where there is eight percent ownership. On the other hand, Smart TV ownership is lowest in Charlotte with 2.9 percent. As for other options to view content, portable is also the way to. For example, we love our smartphones, because 69% of African-Americans own them. It appears that we are taking a little longer, though, to warm up to tablets – about 11% of us overall own these gadgets. And just as we watch the most TV, we use our mobile devices for watching video at a 30% higher rate than the rest of the population. The percentages of our device ownership tend to jump, however, when we check out the numbers market by market. These are the top African-American Markets for smartphone penetration: Chicago (75%), Washington, D.C. (73%), Atlanta (72%), New York (72%) and Dallas (72%). Here are our top areas for tablet ownership: Tampa (28%), Atlanta (27%), Boston (26%), New York (26%) and Washington, D.C. (26%). What does all of this mean to any of us? It means that marketers and manufacturers have a myriad of opportunities to understand, appreciate and reach you as unique and diverse consumers in locations (as equally diverse) each with their own personalities. Best of all, you get to choose. So, you drive the market. Cheryl Pearson-McNeil is senior vice president of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Nielsen. For more information and studies go to www.nielsenwire.com.
First bike sharing program in Detroit focuses on revitalization, sustainability, convenience and cost-effective transportation By RJ Barnhill Zagster, one of the nation’s first bike sharing companies, announced it has partnered with Rock Ventures and Quicken Loans to launch Detroit’s first bike sharing program. Rock Ventures’ 9,200 team members in downtown Detroit can reserve and ride comfortable, city-friendly cruiser bikes, allowing them a healthy, convenient, sustainable and fun way to run errands, grab lunch, get to meetings or just exercise. “With the success of public bike sharing programs around the world, more and more employers, real estate developers and universities are looking to offer a more customized, convenient and flexible program for tenants and employees,” said Timothy Ericson, co-founder and CEO of Zagster. “Rock Ventures and Quicken Loans have really stepped up to show the world that the Motor City is ready for a new set of wheels.”
Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Zagster has successfully launched bike sharing programs in large cities including Chicago, Boston and New York and is now doing so in Detroit’s burgeoning urban core. Initially, 48 Breezer bikes will be available on-demand to Rock Ventures’ team members, and will be parked outside eight properties in and around Detroit’s Central Business District: Compuware, M@dison, One Woodward, 1528 Woodward Avenue, Chase Tower, Financial District Garage, 1001 Woodward Garage and Two Detroit Garage. Additional locations may be launched later. After registering on Zagster’s website, riders simply text “start” plus the bike number (e.g. “start 46”) to Zagster. A confirmation message with the access code for the lock box is texted back. This action reserves the bike for the remainder of the day or until the bike is returned. Riders text “end” to the same number, which releases the bike for the next rider.
Bike reservations last up to 24 hours. The Breezer Uptown bikes used by Zagster have won numerous awards for their lightweight yet durable frames. They are outfitted with spacious baskets ideal for transporting laptops and computer gear, takeout food or groceries. Riders can park their bikes anywhere they want using the included lock, allowing the ultimate in convenience. When done with their bike, riders simply return the bike to the Zagster bike rack. “The launch of Zagster in Detroit is another way we are activating our streets and helping our team members explore Detroit — on two wheels versus four,” said Jay Farner, Quicken Loans president and chief marketing officer, adding that the company is sponsoring Zagster memberships for its team members. “Bike sharing fits in with our placemaking initiatives. We hope other downtown companies will follow our lead and consider bringing this perk to their team members.”
business Wells Fargo & Company is hosting a free Home Preservation Workshop in Detroit for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Wells Fargo Financial and Wells Fargo Home Equity customers facing financial hardships. Wells Fargo has invited nearly 3,200 mortgage customers to the free workshop which will be held on Thursday, August 8, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., at the Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, Woodward Ballroom, located at 1114 Washington Road in Detroit. Parking for workshop participants is free. Local nonprofit credit counseling agencies – including Community Housing Network, Inc., Mission of Peace, and Southwest Housing Solutions – will be onsite to provide assistance to homeowners who have credit challenges that extend beyond their mortgage payments. Homeowners whose loans are “under water” – meaning they owe more on their mortgage than the value of their home – may be eligible to refinance their loan based on certain criteria, including demonstrating ability to repay. Depending on eligibility for a loan modification, homeowners who are behind on their payments may also receive a principal reduction on their mortgage. “While our foreclosure and delinquency rates are below the industry average, and nationwide we have assisted more than 869,000 customers with modifications, our goal with this workshop is to help as many homeowners as possible avoid foreclosure,” said Russ Cross, senior vice president and regional director with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. “During this free workshop, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage customers
who are faced with payment challenges will have the opportunity to meet faceto-face with our home preservation specialists to explore the options available to them.” Where possible, borrowers will receive a decision on a workout, loan modification or other options, on site or shortly following the workshop. Options include Wells Fargo’s own loan modification program and the federal government’s Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP). About 75 Wells Fargo home preservation specialist team members, including bilingual specialists, will be on hand at the upcoming workshop to assist customers. This is the second time Wells Fargo has hosted a Home Preservation Workshop in Detroit. During the first workshop held in April 2011, 239 homeowners attended. The Detroit event will be the 15th workshop Wells Fargo will host this year. This will be the 97th largescale Home Preservation Workshop Wells Fargo has hosted since September 2009, and the company has participated in more than 1,150 home preservation events since 2008. Since September 2009, company representatives have met with more than 42,000 customers at its Home Preservation Workshops in an effort to help them avoid foreclosure. Walk-ins are welcome although registration is strongly recommended in order to guarantee the ability to meet one-on-one with a representative. Customers should register by Tuesday, August 6, at www.wfhmevents.com/leadingthewayhome or call 1-800-405-8067 for more information.
Detroit Future City moving from Eastern Market location
Plans are under way for the Detroit Future City Implementation Team to be in a new storefront space by October, but in the meantime, the DFC leadership is continuing to develop a dynamic organizational structure and staff for implementation. “The Eastern Market location served us well while we were developing the Strategic Framework plan, but we’ve decided it will be best to establish a new location that can ac-
commodate our changing needs for the implementation of the framework,” said Detroit Future City, director, Dan Kinkead. Kinkead says the new location has been identified and they are in negotiations with the building owner. He expects to be able to share more details about the new Implementation Home Base in the coming weeks. In the interim, the Home Base Staff will temporarily relocate to the offices of Detroit Future City partner Hamilton Anderson Associates. They are based in downtown’s Paradise Valley District.
remain the same: 313259-4407, as will the email address: info@detroitfuturecity.com. Team members will continue to answer questions about the Framework, schedule meeting requests, and help Detroiters make a connection to Detroit Future City. The content from the Strategic Framework will also remain accessible. The framework can still be downloaded at: www. DetroitFutureCity.com. A reference copy will remain available at 80 locations across metro Detroit including all Detroit Public Library branches. Information Roadshows will also continue to be exhibited across the city.
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Governor Snyder approves $450M in private bonds for Detroit entertainment project
Wells Fargo to help customers facing mortgage payment challenges at workshop
Detroit Future City officials announced they are moving from their Eastern Market Home Base located at 2929 Russell Street by August 1.
July 31-Aug. 6, 2013
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
Arena expected to create 4,380 construction jobs and help revitalize city
Gov. Rick Snyder recently announced key Michigan Strategic Fund actions to support construction of a new Detroit events center and entertainment district, a project expected to create 4,380 construction jobs and help revitalize the city. “This new entertainment district will be much more than a new arena for the Detroit Red Wings. This is a project that will help revitalize Detroit,” he said. “This project creates another major destination point for residents and visitors alike that builds on prior investments along Woodward from Comerica Park and Ford Field to the new Whole Foods in MidTown. The Ilitch family organization is making an enormous investment in the city and state bond financing makes this project a true public-private partnership.”
multipurpose events center that will be the home of the Detroit Red Wings. Construction of the arena is expected to create an estimated 2,900 direct construction jobs. With the related commercial and entertainment ven-
The project includes acquisition of land, construction of the events center, the acquisition and installation of furnishings and equipment, and further development of the surrounding district. The investment for the project is estimated at $650 million. Olympia Development is expected to fund 56 percent of the project investment with public sources contributing 44 percent. Over the past decade, private funding has averaged 25 percent for comparable projects for major league sports facilities across the nation, according to Olympia Development testimony presented to the MSF. “This project is appropriately named as it will have a catalytic effect on the city thanks to added commercial and residential offerings along with the arena and entertainment venue,” said Michael Finney, MSF chair and president and chief executive officer of the Michigan Economic Development Corp. “This vital community development will provide thousands of jobs for city residents during construction and new fulltime jobs when the facilities are completed.”
Rick Snyder
Last month, Olympia Development of Michigan, an Ilitch-owned company, signed a memorandum of understanding with the Detroit Downtown Development Authority and Wayne County that provides a framework for the private and public financing of the Catalyst Development Project in the city. The MSF approved the Catalyst Development Project for the Detroit Downtown Development Authority and Olympia Development of Michigan, LLC, and an inducement resolution for issuance of $450 million in private activity bonds to finance construction.
Pure Michigan is a brand on the rise, representing business, talent and tourism initiatives across Michigan. These efforts are driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business growth, jobs and opportunity with a focus on helping grow Michigan’s economy.
Michael Finney ues, the total direct co struction jobs created by the project are estimated at 4,380. The project agreement requires at least half of the jobs created to be filled by Detroit residents.
Our Children Deserve THE BEST! Dan Quisenberry
The Detroit Future City phone number will
President, Michigan Association of Public School Administrators
Tonya Allen
Chief Operating Officer, Skillman Foundation
Plans for the new entertainment and commercial district call for a
Dr. Curtis Ivery
Chancellor, Wayne County Community College District
Sharlonda Buckman Executive Director, Detroit Parent Network
Karen P. Ridgeway
Superintendent of Academics, Detroit Public Schools
Tyrone E. Winfrey, Sr.
Chief of Staff, Education Achievement Authority
Education Town Hall Meeting Join us on, Wednesday, August 14, 2013 Our Children Deserve the Best: Join us for a town hall meeting-style conversation about the urgent need to educate our children now. Leaders, educators, parents and even students themselves, must rally to take advantage of the options available to educate our children from cradle to career.
When: Wednesday, August 14, 2013 6:00 p.m. Where: Wayne County Community College Downtown Campus 801 West Fort Street Detroit, Michigan Michigan Chronicle Senior Editor Bankole Thompson Moderator
WWJ News Radio 950 AM City Beat Reporter Vickie Thomas Co-Moderator
Join the conversation on #MCEdSummit
For more information call the Michigan Chronicle at (313) 963-5522
business
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
July 31 - Aug. 6, 2013 Page C-6
Open for business! Meijer’s ribbon-cutting ceremony officially commemorated the opening of its first Detroit store location, as well as an unofficial celebration of the 312th anniversary of the city’s founding. Photo credits: David Watkins
The much anticipated ribbon cutting drew the collective applause of Detroit’s community, political and business leaders, in addition to the appreciation of area residents eager to become loyal Meijer customers.
Doug Meijer, Co-Chairman (left); Mark Meijer, Board Member; Mayor Bing; Hank Meijer, Co-Chairman and Co-CEO; J.K. Symancyk, President
Store director Adrian Lewis is at the helm of the Detroit Meijer store, which is anticipated to quickly become the flagship of the company’s 202 locations.
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Reflections By Steve Holsey
Cheers for Beyoncé… and Detroit
The amazing
July 31- Aug. 6, 2013
life and
During her recent sold-out concert at The Palace of Auburn Hills, Beyoncé, the hardest working woman in show business, set aside a part of the show to pay tribute to Detroit, in light of its bankruptcy filing. There was a large screen featuring a video montage of Detroit as well as famous people from the Motor City, including Berry Gordy, Kid Rock, Joe Louis and Eminem. She also added a special song to her act Beyoncé for the occasion, a heartfelt rendition of Sam Cooke’s classic, “A Change Is Gonna Come.” At the conclusion of the tribute, the words “Nothing Stops Detroit” appeared on the screen in giant letters. Thanks, Beyoncé! A special tribute from a special lady. And by the way, it must be a gratifying thrill to be able to fill a venue that holds 24,276 people!
career of
V anessa W illiams
EARTH, WIND & FIRE is one of those legendary acts that are so firmly established that they do not need to have music currently on the charts to keep working and make good money doing it. Their fans turn out in droves, and the group is to be commended for carrying on so effectively despite the absence of group founder and co-lead singer Maurice White, who had to stop performing for health reasons.
Earth, Wind & Fire But in September, new music by Earth, Wind & Fire is scheduled to be released — the first in eight years. The album is titled “Now, Then & Forever” and it is very good. It features a lot of the kind of music you would expect from Earth, Wind & Fire (“Love Is Law,” “Belo Horizonte,” “The Rush,” etc.), but also some surprises, such as a made-for-clubs song titled “Dance Floor.” Earth, Wind & Fire doesn’t get old, they just mellow with age, like fine wine. And kudos to Philip Bailey, Verdine White and Ralph Johnson who have been there “since forever.” FANTASIA will soon be returning to Broadway. She will star in a show titled “After Midnight” which celebrates the music of the legendary Duke Ellington, focusing on his years at the famed Cotton Club, in Harlem, New York. The show will be premiered on Oct. 18 and the official opening will be on Nov. 3. It is very easy in imagine “Tasia” singing songs like “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing),” Fantasia “Take the ‘A’ Train,” “Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me” and “Satin Doll.” The late, great Bobby “Blue” Bland was famous for a lot of things, one of them being a distinctive “growl” (for lack of a better word) heard on so many of his recordings and in concert. He said he got it from the famous Rev. C.L. Franklin or, as he put it, “Aretha’s daddy.”
Bobby “Blue” Bland
Rev. C.L. Franklin
We told you this before but it is worth repeating because it is funny. The O’Jays have been recording since 1961, and co-lead singer Eddie Levert said girls used to throw panties onto the stage, but now it’s middle-aged women throwing “big ol’ draws.” Michelle Williams, formerly of Destiny’s Child, said that at one point recently, she actually thought she needed Botox despite just being in her early thirties. But Kelly Rowland convinced her that what she really needed was a facial. She got one and it worked. This is what you call laying it on the line, as well as being liberated. Famed TV pesonality/journalist Anderson Cooper said, “The fact
See Reflections Page D-3
By Steve Holsey
H
aving been crowned the first African-American Miss America, in 1983, would assure Vanessa Williams a place in entertainment history. But she is so much more than that — singer, actress, dancer, former fashion model and she is also an accomplished pianist. So much time has elapsed, and so many things have been achieved, that it is sometimes hard to believe that there was a time when Williams’ life appeared to be derailed because of pictures published in Penthouse magazine that cut her Miss America reign short near the end. (They were old pictures taken when she was a teenager.) She was down, but hardly out, and had no intensions of crawling into a corner and going down in what some judgmental people would call infamy. It was just a matter of assessing the situation, regrouping, and then launching a carefully strategized comeback. “What people forget is that Vanessa has talent,” said Ramon Hervey, her husband, in the spring of 1988 when Williams was enjoying the success of her first hit record, “The Right Stuff.” Three years before that, producers of the TV special “Motown Returns to the Apollo” bravely chose Vanessa Williams to perform during a segment on legendary ladies. Williams appeared as Josephine Baker.
See Vanessa Williams Page D-3
lifestyle
EAT
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
Editor’s Note
If you’re hesitant or passive, you run the risk of leading a boring life marked by routine and unfulfilled goals. Most progress has been led by people who were bold — scientists, public servants, artists, entrepreneurs and others who didn’t wait for opportunities; they created them.
So this week pledge to be bold and unstoppable. and remember, don’t let people knock you down when trying new things. They are usually the kind of people that wish they were bold but don’t have the courage to do what you are doing.
PLAY All the best,
Rian J. Barnhill
July 31- Aug. 6, 2013
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MGM Grand Detroit opens Italian dining outlet at Breeze Dining Court
DSO announces four free community concerts, presented by DTE Energy Foundation
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) will present four free concerts this fall at Lakeview High School in St. Clair Shores, Greater Grace Temple in Detroit, Heinz C. Prechter Educational and Performing Arts Center in Taylor, and Clawson High School in Clawson. These concerts represent a multi-year sponsorship from the DTE Energy Foundation. Last summer, the DSO and the DTE Energy Foundation asked the public to nominate their community venues to receive a free DSO concert, to which there was an overwhelming response. While nearly 100 venues were nominated, with nearly 5,000 notes of support from community members, the DSO could only choose five last season. In order to build upon that enthusiasm, venues from that pool of communities were incorporated into the series this year. “We are thrilled with the public response to the DSO and DTE Energy Foundation’s initiative to make classical music as accessible as possible,” said Mike Chriss, DTE Energy director, Corporate and Governmental Affairs. “We are grateful for the opportunity to help share the artistic excellence of the DSO with the surrounding metropolitan communities.” Eligibility for selection of these venues was based on a group of logistical criteria along with strong evidence of
community support (criteria are outlined fully at dso.org/dtemusic). The DSO continues to serve its immediate community through collaborations with local schools, the Detroit Rush program (which provides a $15 ticket to any classical or jazz concert at Orchestra Hall for Detroit residents) and new initiatives such as a partnership with Detroit Medical Center Children’s Hospital providing musical therapy to patients. The schedule of the DTE Energy Foundation Presents DSO in your Community concerts is as follows: • Wednesday, September 25, 7:30 p.m., Lakeview High School (St. Clair Shores, Macomb County) • Thursday, September 26, 7:30 p.m., Greater Grace Temple (Detroit, Wayne County) • Friday, September 27, 8 p.m., Heinz C. Prechter Educational and Performing Arts Center at Wayne County Community College Downriver (Taylor, Wayne County) • Sunday, September 29, 3 p.m., Clawson High School (Clawson, Oakland County) Tickets are available now at the DSO box office (3711 Woodward Ave.) and at dso.org/dtemusic.
Detroit Caribbean Cultural Festival, August 9-11 The Caribbean Cultural and Carnival Organization (CCCO) is proud to present the Detroit Caribbean Cultural Festival August 9 -11. This annual event will be held in New Center Park, located on the southwest corner of Second Avenue and West Grand Boulevard in Midtown Detroit. It’s a wonderful location to bring the sites and sounds of the Caribbean to the people of Detroit. The festival cost is $5, it is open to all, and
is packed with live performances from local and international artists, flavorful and authentic Caribbean food, souvenirs, and activities for the entire family to enjoy. Special festivities are planned to celebrate the beautiful island nations of the Bahamas and St. Kitts and Nevis, this year’s host countries. The Detroit Caribbean Cultural Festival is the annual signature event
of the CCCO, which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization comprised of several organized groups in Michigan representing the numerous countries. One of the primary objectives of the CCCO is to promote and interpret Caribbean culture to the metro Detroit community through educational means and cultural activities. For more information call 313-255-2666 or visit www.myccco.org.
‘30 Days To Lose It!’ Season 4 kickoff at the Wright Museum Get back into gear with season 4 of this popular fitness program. There’ll be free health screenings courtesy of Henry Ford Institute on Multicultural Health, refreshments from Beans & Cornbread, and a 7:30 pm weekly Boot Camp workout with Miss USA 1990 Carole Gist Stramler of Royale Physique Fitness. Weight Watchers will award prizes to attendees who bring the most guests to work out. Free for members, $5 for non-members. Attend eight consecutive sessions and receive a complimentary museum membership, making your next 12 months free.
All activities take place on the lower level of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. Please enter through the back (Farnsworth) entrance. Parking is free on Brush Street, and metered parking is available on Warren and Farnsworth avenues. Metered parking is now enforced until 10 pm Monday through Saturday. Well-lit, secure parking is available behind the museum at the Cultural Center parking lot for $3 after 4 pm; enter from John R, a one-way street heading south. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, four out
of five African American women — the leading casualties of such ills as obesity, heart disease and diabetes — are overweight. In response, the “30 Days To Lose It!” program, inspired by the hit TV show, “The Biggest Loser,” was launched in 2010. Whether you want to lose weight, get fit or just stay in shape, come dressed to sweat (with an exercise mat or beach towel). Bring “a buddy or three” and join this safe, fun fitness program endorsed by the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports. For more information please email 30days@ chwmuseum.org.
MGM Grand Detroit’s Breeze Dining Court, which serves more than one million meals a year, will now feature Italian fare at its Red Sauce fast dining outlet. Previously serving Mexican cuisine, Red Sauce’s menu will highlight Italian-inspired soups, salads, wood-fired oven pizzas, sandwiches, specialties and desserts. “Our guests were the impetus for us to transition Red Sauce into an Italian outlet. People just love their Italian food and this is a way to get it to them fresh and fast,” said MGM Grand Detroit’s Executive Chef Michael Urbin. “Our intent when creating the menu was to include authentic and beloved dishes that can be found in any Italian grandmother’s kitchen.”
offers Italian Toscano or Minestrone Soup and three salads: Classic Caesar, Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato, and Antipasto Salads. Next, Red Sauce chefs will have freshly made sliced and full homemade pizzas for dine-in and to-go purchase. Made in the outlet’s wood-fire oven, pies will be available in the cheese, meat lovers, supreme and veggie varieties. The pizza chefs also will be making “Breeze Bread” which is served with pizza or ranch dipping sauce. For a taste of Italy, guests are not lacking in options. The menu features two kinds of sandwiches: the baked meatball grinder with house-made meatballs, blended cheese and tomato sauce, and the
ItalianSausage Sub made with fresh Italian sausage, peppers, onions and tomato sauce. Italian specialties, which come with fresh parmesan focaccia bread, include baked meat lasagna, chicken lasagna, and breaded chicken parmesan with pasta. Finally, the penne rigate pasta is served with a choice of meat, marinara or creamy alfredo sauce. For a sweet ending, guests can choose from two Italian favorites: tiramisu and cannoli. Menu items range from $4 to $25. For an additional cost, guests can order add-on items, such as a salad, pasta or meatball, or “Make it a Dinner” by adding any additional item or soup and a fountain drink. Red Sauce is open daily from 11 a.m. to 4 a.m.
SHOP To begin, Red Sauce
Add color to your home without the commitment to paint
Revive the color in your home without paint. Vibrant window treatments, furnishings and accessories are simple ways to make your rooms burst with color.
• Curtain Call See your windows in a whole new light. Window treatments provide a striking swath of color without the use of paint and create a focal point for your room. Mount curtain panels on the wall, near the ceiling, with the bottoms brushing the floor for a dramatic, colorful look. Experiment with different patterns, color combinations and treatment styles to find which style works best with your windows.
• Pile ’Em high Throw pillows are a simple way to add a splash of color and comfort to any room. Mix and match patterns and solids to create a dynamic contrast. Combining colors that are direct opposites on the color wheel intensifies their impact.
• Throwing Shade Give your room personality with a colorful lampshade. A bold base can add a shapely design element, while dressing up a dull lampshade is an easy project that gives a big burst of color.
• Flower Power Flowers are a fun way to bring color and life into a room. Fresh blossoms provide a space with color, texture, and scent. Refresh your arrangements by regularly pairing fresh blooms with shapely vases.
• Have a Seat Change a room from blah to bold by adding lively furnishings. Neutral walls serve as a background for vibrant colored chairs. But limit the number of bright furnishings to maximize the color’s impact in the space.
entertainment
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
July 31 - Aug. 6, 2013 Page D-3
New music: ‘The Art of Romance’
A CD has just been released titled “The Art of Romance” on the De troit-based indie label of the same name. Its purpose, says produc ers Darold Gholston and Scott Sumner, in addition to providing a pleasant listening experience, is to prove that “romance is very much alive.”
“The Art of Romance” consists of 11 songs — vocals and instrumentals — with evocative titles such as “Celebrate Our Love,” “Dancing in Love,” “Love Vows” and “All Night Long.” Vocals are by Marnell, Kevin Lewis and Michael Hanna. Provid ing instrumentation are Charles Scales, Angelo Primo, Harry Hovakimian and Michael Mindingall. “The album was de signed with relationships in mind,” said Gholston.
“I wrote it to take cou ples on a journey that unlocks their true feel ings towards each other, to remind them of why they’re in a relationship in the first place, and dis
cover reasons to stay in love.” To hear or purchase “The Art of Romance,” go to iTunes or visit http:// artofromancellc.com.
BYOB parties with mature people in mind Bobby Green has been many things over the years. He is a former member of Enchantment, the De troit vocal group famous for such national hits as “It’s You That I Need” and “Gloria.” After that, he made a name for himself as a hairdresser and as a dance instructor. Not long ago, Green saw the need for par
ties for older adults, so he developed “Oldies and More,” BYOB par ties that take place at St. George Cathedral Cultur al Center, 18405 W. Nine Mile Road.
For more detailed in formation, call Bobby Green at (313) 530-2933.
Vanessa Williams In 1989, Williams re ceived an NAACP Image Award in the Outstand ing New Artist category. In her tearful acceptance speech, among those she thanked were Ed Eckstine from Mercury Records “for giving me a chance,” her family, husband — and the Black community because “when I needed you, you were there for me.”
“The Right Stuff” was just the start of Williams’ success as a recording artist. It reached No. 4 on the national R&B charts and after that it was one Top 10 hit after the other, including “(He’s Got) The Look,” “Dreamin’,” “Darlin’ I,” “Running Back to You,” “The Com fort Zone” and “Work To Do.” But her biggest hit was the lovely “Save The Best For Last” which was No. 1 on the R&B chart for three weeks and No. 1 on the Pop chart for an im pressive five weeks. It was also a smash in Australia, Ireland, Japan, the Neth erlands and Canada. The album “Save The Best For Last” appeared on, “The Comfort Zone,” was certified Double
Platinum by the Record Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling two million copies and has since been certified Triple Platinum. There were also five Grammy nominations. “Success,” said Wil liams, “is the sweetest re venge.” HOWEVER, she also had a strong desire to do stage and film work. Williams didn’t have to start at the bottom. She landed a lead role on Broadway that hundreds of other actresses wanted, replacing the great Chita Rivera in “Kiss of the Spider Woman.” Following that critical ly acclaimed role was the theatrical gems “Carmen Jones,” “Into the Woods” and “Sondheim on Sond heim.” She is currently featured on Broadway in “The Trip to Bountiful,” also starring Cicely Tyson (who recently won a Tony Award for her perfor mance) and Cuba Good ing Jr. Williams’ film histo ry is long and diverse,
is, I’m gay, always have been, always will be, and I couldn’t be any more happy, any more comfort able with myself, or any more proud.”
mother, recently revealed that her daughter’s fa vorite food was chicken wings and pork ’n’ beans, and her favorite sweet treat was Creamsicles.
Congrats to Tina Turn er and her longtime boy friend, German music producer Erwin Bach, who recently got married in Switzerland, where they live.
BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW…that Spike Lee’s real name is Sheldon Lee, that Donna Summer’s was LaDonna Gaines, and that Kareem Abdul Jabar was born Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr.
The legendary Eliz abeth Taylor’s favorite was fried chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy, and Cissy Hous ton, Whitney Houston’s
Bobby Green
From page D-1
Television viewers have seen Vanessa Wil liams in, among many others, “Ally McBeal,” “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” “The Jacksons – An American Dream” (a made-for-television movie), “Bye Bye Birdie,” “South Beach” and “Des perate Housewives.”
Reflections
There is a tendency to think of celebrities as preferring fancy, expen sive foods, but that is not always the case.
Wayne State University pulses with city life. You can’t help but let it move you. Study the arts at WSU, and your creativity will shine on the page, over the airwaves, on screen and on stage. And your work will inspire all of Midtown: More than 100,000 community members attend Wayne State lectures, exhibitions and performances each year. Are you ready to create your vision? Learn more at wayne.edu.
and once again critics have written favorably. Among the movies are “Eraser” (with Arnold Schwarzenegger), “Soul Food,” “Johnson Family Vacation,” “Dance With Me” and “Shaft.”
It was a powerful, heart-touching, race-af firming moment. VANESSA WILLIAMS was born in Millwood, New York, and since both of her parents were music teachers, it comes as no surprise that she was musically inclined. After high school she attended Syracuse University from 1981 to 1983. She was a musical theater arts major, but left the uni versity before graduating due to winning the Miss America pageant, and entering was not some thing she had planned on doing.
CREAtE youR vIsIon
The upcoming dates are Aug. 9, Aug. 23, Sept. 13, Oct. 11, Oct. 25, Nov. 8 and Nov. 22.
MEMORIES: “I Hear a Symphony” (the Su premes), “Whodunit” (Ta vares), “Starting All Over Again” (Mel and Tim), “I Am Love” (Jennifer Holli day), “Too Tough” (Angela Bofill), “Party Train” (the Gap Band), “Let’s Do It Again” (the Staple Sing ers), “All Around the
AIM HIGHER
AND THEN there was her role in the long-run ning series “Ugly Betty” in which she played the villainous modeling com pany owner (and former model) Wilhelmina Slater. Looking over all she has accomplished in var ious fields (Broadway is her favorite), and how challenging her start was, Williams said, “You’re always going to have people that are naysay ers, that don’t believe in your talent, that don’t believe that you will have any kind of longevity.” Well, as Will Smith once advised, use criti cism and defeat for fuel. Vanessa Williams has four children, three with her first husband, Ramon Hervey, and one with her second, NBA star Rick Fox. She is current ly single and gets along great with both ex-hus bands. Anyone wishing to know more about Vanes sa Williams’ personal life should read “You Have No Idea,” the autobi ographical and revealing book she wrote with her mother, Helen Williams, that was published in 2012.
From page D-1 World” (Lisa Stansfield), “I’ll Be Good” (René and Angela). BLESSINGS to Linda Burgess, Doug Ware, Heaster Wheeler, Eric Hunter, Monica Holie field, Andrew Humphrey, Danton Wilson, Janice Wilson and LaWanda Gray. WORDS OF THE WEEK, from singer and former "Soul Train" dancer Eddie Cole: "Don't let anyone make you into a bad person because you do this or don't do that. Do you." Let the music play! Steve Holsey can be reached at Svh517@aol. com and PO Box 02843, Detroit, MI 48202.
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Dr. Clinton Canady, Jr. Services were held for Dr. Clinton Canady Jr., July 8, at Trinity A.M.E. Church, with Pastor Lila R. Martin officiating. Dr. Canady, 91, died July 4. “Doc” Canady was born Nov. 6, 1921 and began his distinguished career after graduating from Meharry Medical College in Nashville with a doctorate of dental science. He was also a member of the famed Tuskegee Airmen. Dr. Canady met his late wife, Elizabeth, in Nashville, and the couple married in 1945. She was a graduate of Fisk University, Meharry’s sister college. Dr. Canady was the second Black dentist in Lansing and practiced for more than 50 years. He was a long-time member of Trinity A.M.E. Church and its predecessor, Collin’s Memorial A.M.E. Church. Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Canady served as president of the Lansing Branch NAACP; was the first Black member of the City of Lansing Fire Board; the first Black member of the Michigan Dental Board; a National Dental Examiner; member of both the Michigan and National Dental Associations; the first Black member of the Country Club of Lansing; founding member of the Lansing alumni chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity; founding member of Alpha Chi Boule of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity; and member of the Detroit chapter of the National Association of Guardsmen. He worked tirelessly to provide employment opportunities for other members of the Black community and assisted in securing positions for Lansing’s first Black teachers, police officers and fire fighters. Dr. Canady is survived by his children, Judge Clinton Canady III, Dr. Alexa Canady-Davis, Atty. Alan L. Canady, and Mark Canady; 10 grandchildren; several great grandchildren; and many others. Special recognition to Tonia Canady, Lee Andrew Canady II, Lynette Gibson, Teresa Reynolds and Ruth McCoy. Contributions to Dr. Canady’s memory may be made to Meharry Medical College c/o School of Dentistry, 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd Jr. Blvd., Nashville, TN 37208-3501. Interment was at Deepdale Cemetery in Lansing. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home.
Dowell L. Moore Services were held for Dowell Moore June 7 at Greenfield Peace Lutheran Church, with Pastor Kenneth Spence officiating. Mr. Moore, 97, died June 2. He was born April 26, 1916 in Roba, Ala. His family lived on a large farm and grew a variety of crops for sustenance and sale. They also leased some of their land to tenant farmers. Their primary cash crop was cotton. Mr. Moore studied agriculture at Tuskegee Institute with the expectation of becoming a farmer. Though he retained a life-long love and gift for growing vegetables, he left Tuskegee and joined the U.S. Army in 1941. Army life suited his practical and success-oriented nature. He excelled in every position he held and retired as a major in 1961. That was a significant accomplishment for an African American who served in a segregated Army. Additionally significant was his rise to officer from the ranks of the enlisted men. He scored so high on an IQ test prior to his promotion to officer that he was summoned to retake the test. The second time around, he scored five points higher at 131. Genius level is 140. During his career in the Army, Major Moore was stationed in Germany; France; Okinawa, Japan; the Philippines; Korea and various locations in the U.S. After leaving the army, Mr. Moore spent 30 years as a contract specialist for the U.S. Automotive Tank Command and briefly as a project manager at American Motors Corp. He married Joyce Arnold on March 31, 1946. Mr. Moore was a long-time member of Greenfield Peace Lutheran Church, where he served in various leadership positions. He grew many of the family’s vegetables in the back yard and performed most household repairs himself. Mr. Moore is survived by his wife, Joyce; sons, Gary, Gregory and Gordon; seven grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; brother, Marcus; and many others. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home. Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery.
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before the City Council of Detroit. Advertisements for bids and contracts for purchases by the City of Detroit appear daily in the Detroit Legal News. Copies are available at the City County Bldg. and at 2001 W. Lafayette, Detroit. REQUEST FOR BIDS Institute for Population Health, Inc. (IPH) Attn: Staffing Firms
Institute for Population Health, Inc. (IPH) is seeking a firm that will provide nursing, medical, epidemiologist, financial, billing, and administrative staffing, Copies of the Request for Qualifications is available. Interested firms should e-mail their interest to the following e-mail address: LMathews@ipophealth.org. In the subject box, state: Request for Qualifications. The proposal will be e-mailed to you. Sealed bids are due Friday, August 9, 2013 at 4:30 p.m. Bids will be opened on August 13, 2013 at the Institute for Population Health, (IPH) at 10:00 am at 1151 Taylor, Room 346C, Detroit, Michigan 48202.
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NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY
Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) and Notice of Public Information Meeting Addressing Runway 4R/22L Displacement of Threshold at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) Romulus, Michigan Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) has completed and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved for public distribution, a Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for the displacement of the runway threshold on Runway 4R/22L at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. The draft EA describes the probable economic, social, and environmental effects of the proposed project and the alternatives considered. The Draft EA is available for review starting on July 29, 2013 at the following locations:
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Seeking
TO: Terry Alexander, Jr. Respondent named therein
COORDINATOR of ATHLETICS MARKETING PROMOTIONS and TICKETING at OAKLAND UNIVERSITY
You are hereby notified that the above-styled action seeking the termination of parental rights was filed June 20, 2011, and that by reason of an Order of Service of Summons by Publication entered by the Court on the 17th day of June, 2013, you are hereby commanded and required to file with the clerk of said court and serve upon Karen S. Benefield, Attorney at Law, L.L.C. , attorney for Dr. James Poe, Jr. and Bertha Poe, whose address is 115 West Broad Street, Eufaula, Alabama 36027, an Answer to the Petition within 30 days of the date of July 31, 2013. Witness the Honorable Theresa Daniel, Judge of said Court.
Athlethic Administration
This position will be responsible for all marketing and promotions; assist with ticket office operations for the Department of Athletics; Athletics Marketing Intern Program, Cheer Team, Dance team, Band and Mascot Program. Will assist This the 17th day of June, 2013. with sponsorship sales and execution. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education Rashawn Harris and/or experience. One year experience in Bullock County Circuit Clerk marketing and promotions. Salary is up to Union Springs, Alabama the low $40s annually. Refer to online posting for additional IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF BULLOCK COUNTY, ALABAMA qualifications and requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by August 6, 2013. Must apply on line for this position to: IN THE MATTOR OF ) https://jobs.oakland.edu R. P. ) JU-2008-33 T. P. ) JU-2008-34 T. P. ) JU-2008-35
You are hereby notified that the above-styled action seeking the termination of parental rights was filed June 20, 2011, and that by reason of an Order of Service of Summons by Publication entered by the Court on the 17th day of June, 2013, you are hereby commanded and required to file with the clerk of said court and serve upon Karen S. Benefield, Attorney at Law, L.L.C. , attorney for Dr. James Poe, Jr. and Bertha Poe, whose address is 115 West Broad Street, Eufaula, Alabama 36027, an Answer to the Petition within 30 days of the date of July 31, 2013. Witness the Honorable Theresa Daniel, Judge of said Court. This the 17th day of June, 2013.
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RESEARCH ASSOCIATE IN DETROIT, MI
Wayne State University has an available position of Research Associate in Detroit, MI. Position requires a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Biomedical Science or Neuroscience. Position also requires two peer-reviewed journal publications on hormonal treatment of environmental &/or aging damage to brain. Job duties: Conduct The Wayne County Airport Authority will hold a Public Information research on hormonal treatments Meeting on the proposed project at Detroit Metro Airport Marriott, for brain damaged by head injury, located at 30559 Flynn Drive, in Romulus, Michigan on Tuesday, disease, &/or aging. Treat wild-type August 13th, 2013. The meeting will be an information open house format, allowing citizen to stop by anytime from 6pm until 8pm. transgenic & genetically modified The purpose of this meeting is to provide the public with informamice with a variety of chemically tion about the proposed project and answer questions about the distinct neurotoxic compounds. Use environmental, economic, and social effects of the proposed project a mouse model & determine the frecurrently scheduled. quency & number of head impacts Written comments or questions on the proposed project will be in the model that result in outcomes accepted through close of business on Friday, August 30, 2013 and known to occur in humans exposed may be sent to: to repeated concussions. Conduct research on the neurochemical Mr. Ernest Gubry roles of serotonin using mice geEnvironmental Specialist netically depleted of brain serotonin Federal Aviation Administration (TPH2 KO mice). Detroit Airports District Office, DET-ADO-600 Analyze brains from drug-& neu11677 South Wayne Road, Suite 107 rotoxin-treated mice & from transRomulus, MI 48174 genic & genetically modified mice E-mail: ernest.gubry@faa.gov for developmental & neuropathological milestones. Use high perReasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the formance liquid chromoatography, hearing impaired will be provided upon three (3) days’ notice to immunohistochemistry, & immunoKristy Exner, Wayne County Airport Authority at (734) 247-2223 or blotting to determine the status of by e-mail to kristy.exner@wcaa.us identified neurochemical systems in brain. Publish results of research in LEGAL ANNOUNCEMENTS peer-reviewed journals. Qualified candidates should apIN THE JUVENILE COURT OF BULLOCK COUNTY, ALABAMA ply through WSU Online Hiring System for posting #039644 at https://jobs.wayne.edu or send resume to Sonya Blair, Program IN THE MATTOR OF ) Coordinator, Wayne State UniverR. P. ) JU-2008-33 sity, Tolan Park Medical Building, T. P. ) JU-2008-34 Department of Psychiatry and T. P. ) JU-2008-35 Behavioral Neurosciences, 3901 Chrysler Drive, Suite 5A, Room 523, Detroit, MI 48201. NOTICE OF SUMMONS FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS
TO: Raykeane Armand Collins Respondent named therein
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IT Operations Analyst OnStar Corp. seeks IT Operations Analyst/ Detroit, MI responsible for maintaining the performance and uptime of a group of applications critical to the proper functioning of OnStar services including performing modifications/deployments in controlled environments such as production; managing problems from the incident through to root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions, among other duties. BS in Comp. Sci., Comp. Engr. or Engr. related, min. 7 yrs experience. Please send resumes to: OnStar Corp., Ref. #4251879, Resume Processing, 300 Renaissance Center, Mail Code 482-C32D46, Detroit, MI 48265-3000
• Detroit Metro Airport Administration Office (Smith Terminal-Mezzanine) • Jacobsen Daniels Associates (121 Pearl Street, Ypsilanti) • Romulus Public Library (11121 Wayne Road, Romulus) • Wayne Public Library (3737 South Wayne Road, Wayne) • Taylor Community Library (12303 Pardee Road, Taylor) • John F Kennedy Library (24602 VanBorn Road, Dearborn Heights) • http://www.wcaa.us/about/publicNotices.aspx
NOTICE OF SUMMONS FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS
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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
July 31 - Aug. 6, 2013
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NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS AND FINAL NOTICE AND PUBIC EXPLANATION OF A PROPOSED ACTION WITHIN A 100-YEAR FLOODPLAIN CITY OF DETROIT Planning and Development Department 65 Cadillac Square, Suite 1200 Detroit, Michigan 48226 Telephone: 313.224.0472 TO ALL INTERESTED AGENCIES, GROUPS AND PERSONS In accordance with 24 CFR 58.70, this notice shall satisfy procedural requirements for activities undertaken by the City of Detroit. This notice also informs all interested parties that the City of Detroit has evaluated the potential effects that the proposed project may have on the human environment as required by Executive Order 11988. The evaluation was conducted in accordance with 24 CFR 55.20. On or about August 9, 2013, and in accordance with 24 CFR 58.71, the City of Detroit will submit a request to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Detroit Field Office for the release of Community Development Block Grant funds authorized under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-383). Once provided the appropriate authorization, the City of Detroit shall commit these funds to the following project: Abayomi CDC Public Facility Rehabilitation Project Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), 2011 and 2012 $200,000.00
PROJECT SCOPE As permitted under 24 CFR 570.201(c), the City of Detroit will commit Federal funds to the Abayomi CDC Public Facility Rehabilitation Project. The Project will provide funding for the following improvements to the public facility located at 24331 West Eight Mile Road, 48219: upgrades and improvements to the HVAC system; upgrades and improvements to the electrical system and lighting; upgrades and improvements to an existing elevator; drywall/carpentry and painting; and new flooring. Abayomi Community Development Corporation (CDC) will serve as the primary sponsor of this project. The offices of Abayomi CDC are located at 24331 West Eight Mile Road, 48219.
DETERMINATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW This project is Categorically Excluded from environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), per 24 CFR 58.35(a)(3), and the preparation of an Environmental Assessment or an Environmental Impact Statement is not required at this time. However, this project is subject to the laws and authorities articulated in 24 CFR 58.5 and 58.6. The project is located in Zone A of the Rouge River Floodplain, areas of the 100-year flood, as indicated on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (Panel 60 of 575; Map # 26163CC0060E). This project involves approximately 1.15 acres of the affected floodplain. In accordance with 24 CFR 58.38, the City of Detroit Planning and Development Department prepared an Environmental Review Record that documents the Environmental Review of the above-named project. The Environmental Review Record is on file with the Planning and Development Department at 65 Cadillac Square, Suite 1200, Detroit, Michigan, 48226. The records are available for public examination and copying, upon request, on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION AND MITIGATION MEASURES The City of Detroit considered the following alternatives to the proposed action: No action – A lack of adequate investment in the facility would diminish the sponsor’s capacity to provide public services to the affected community. Alternate locations outside the floodplain – Relocating public services to a different facility would impose additional financial costs and administrative burdens upon the project sponsor. For the reasons articulated above, the proposed action is the only practicable alternative. The project will improve an existing structure, and therefore, the project will not further impede flood flows or add any fill to the floodplain. In order to mitigate any adverse impacts associated with locating in a floodplain, the project sponsor shall maintain flood insurance on the structure in accordance with the directives of the City of Detroit and Federal law and regulation, and the sponsor shall maintain an emergency response plan in the event that flooding does occur.
REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS AND CERTIFICATION Through the Request for Release of Funds and Certification (form HUD 7015.15), the City of Detroit certifies to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that the City of Detroit has fulfilled and will continue to fulfill its responsibilities for environmental review, decision making and action. Furthermore, the City of Detroit and Mayor Dave Bing, or other official approved by HUD, consent to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities for environmental review, decision making, and action. Upon approval of the request for release of funds and certification, the City of Detroit may commit the Community Development Block Grant funds, and HUD will have satisfied its responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and related laws and authorities.
PUBLIC COMMENTS The City of Detroit invites all interested agencies, groups and persons to submit written comments concerning the above-named project for consideration. The Planning and Development Department should receive such comments at the address listed at the top of this notice (Attention: Environmental Officer) on or before August 8, 2013. The City of Detroit will consider all such comments so received, and the City of Detroit will not request the release of Federal funds or take any choice-limiting action on the above-named project prior to August 9, 2013.
OBJECTION TO RELEASE OF FUNDS For a fifteen (15) day period following receipt of all required documentation, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will accept an objection to its approval of the release of funds and certification only if the objection is based upon one of the following claims identified in 24 CFR 58.75: (a) That the certification was not in fact executed by the Chief Executive Officer or other officer of the applicant approved by HUD; (b) That the applicant’s environmental review record for the project indicates omission of a required decision, finding, or step applicable to the program in the environmental review process; (c) That the grant recipient has committed funds or incurred costs not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) That another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. HUD will not consider objections to the release of funds and certification on a basis other than those stated. All interested agencies, groups or persons must prepare and submit objections in accordance with the required procedures outlined in 24 CFR 58.76. Potential objectors must address their objections to:
Ms. Ellen Chung, Senior CPD Representative Detroit Field Office U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 477 Michigan Avenue, 16th Floor Detroit, Michigan, 48226 Potential objectors should contact Ms. Ellen Chung at 313.234.7324 to verify the actual last day of the objection period.
NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION The City of Detroit does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, creed, handicap, national origin, race, sex or sexual orientation. Persons or groups with discrimination complaints may file those complaints with the City of Detroit Human Rights Department, 2 Woodward Avenue, Suite 1026, Detroit, Michigan, 48226. The applicant for this project is:
CITY OF DETROIT Dave Bing, Mayor Coleman A. Young Municipal Center 2 Woodward Avenue, Suite 1126 Detroit, Michigan, 48226 Notice Date: July 31, 2013
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July 31-Aug. 6, 2013 Page D-6
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
STAR CHART Leo Season (July 23 – August 22) Symbol: The Lion Ruling Planet: The Sun – center of our universe Element: Fire – passionate, dynamic, active Quality: Fixed Mission: Hunting for a Lion Queen Famous Leos: President Barack Obama, Jennifer Lopez, Usain Bolt, Michael Ealy and Halle Berry Leo Andre Smith photos
Maclin and Pitta out for season, Lions nursing smaller injuries
By Nick Hopson
Training camps have started around the NFL and two teams have already lost major offensive weapons. The Philadelphia Eagles have lost Jeremy Maclin to a torn ACL. He was injured during practice Saturday during a seven-on-seven drill and was carted off the field. Maclin led the team in receptions, touchdowns and receiving yards last year. Maclin was the third player in the league to tear his ACL this season joining former Detroit Lion Aaron Berry of the Jets and former Michigan Wolverine Jonas Mouton of the Chargers. The other blow was to Baltimore Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta. Pitta was injured during practice Saturday in a collision with safety James Ihedigbo leading to a dislocated hip. He was carted off the field and later had season ending surgery. The Detroit Lions have had their share of injuries during camp but so far none have been season ending. In recent years, we have yet to see a Lions secondary without injuries. Cornerback Ron Bartell missed practice Sunday with a shoulder injury. Cornerback Jonte Green left practice after a right hamstring injury and did not return Sunday. Both seem like minor injuries going forward. Louis Delmas did see some action in seven-on-seven drills but shortly after was seen icing his knee. The Lions would like to have Delmas healthy for the start of the season and it seems they are taking no chances with his knee this early in camp. Other injured Lions include offensive guard Leroy Harris and receiver Devin
Thomas on the physically unable to perform list and defensive end Ronnell Lewis on the non-football illness list. Injuries routinely derail a team’s plan for the season. It seems like every year we see great players fall at some point in the season. However, in certain situations this gives birth to a new star. What would Tom Brady be if Drew Bledsoe had never gotten injured? More recently, the Lions discovered Joique Bell due to injuries. It’s a sure bet that there will be more injuries in the league but the question is will we see any new players step up. Fantasy Football Impact: Replacing Maclin and Pitta Pitta was getting a lot of hype this year at the tight end position and will be greatly missed. The Ravens immediately responded to the injury of Pitta by going out and signing Visanthe Shiancoe. Shiancoe is far removed from his eleven touchdown season with the Vikings in 2009. Last year he played in four games for the New England Patriots and had no catches. The early favorite for most of the targets has to be Ed Dickson. The Maclin injury poses a much tougher problem for the Eagles. They need someone opposite DeSean Jackson to prevent double coverage. Jason Avant, Riley Cooper and Arrelious Benn will be fighting for Maclin’s starting spot. The safest bet for the starting job would be Avant as he has the most experience and has had at least 50 receptions and 500 receiving yards the last three years. Benn was a second round pick in 2010 for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers but injuries have limited his play.
There is a strong attraction between you and someone at the moment, but you’re definitely holding back. Don’t think about it, you must act upon these impulses or the person you wish to develop a relationship with may assume your aloof attitude is a form of dismissal.
fun. If you’re at a party and go just a little bit over the top, you will likely be in good company, as this is a general time of celebration for all. Love probability: 46% Lucky Numbers: 20, 30, 31, 45, 9, 7 Sagittarius A fast pace, with many letters, phone calls, errands, meetings, or discussions, is on the agenda. You may feel mentally restless, impatient, and overly eager to get your own ideas across. Don’t let it overwhelm you, next week provides further clarity Love probability: 72% Lucky Numbers: 13, 31, 11, 38, 10, 7 Capricorn
Lucky Numbers: 21, 49, 33, 11, 20, 1
Enthusiasm requires focus, and this is a good time to regain yours. Big plans and ideal notions may seem to satisfy you less today or just feel unattainable.
Virgo
Love probability: 62%
It seems that whatever you try to do goes nowhere, or gets lost in a haze of misunderstanding. This is not a good time to try to toot your own horn or attempt to get personal recognition for your efforts.
Lucky Numbers: 32, 11, 6, 5, 23, 33
Love probability: 38%
Love probability: 3% Lucky Numbers: 43, 33, 6, 48, 44, 32
Aquarius Although you may take your talents for granted, it can be a joy to take inventory now and then so you know just what you are showing off. Envision what you need and it will appear for you right on time.
Libra
Love probability: 8%
Relaxation, enjoyment, and pleasure are emphasized now. This is not a time to push yourself or be involved in activities that require intense competition or a great expenditure of energy.
Lucky Numbers: 27, 41, 44, 33, 5, 49
Love probability: 98% Lucky Numbers: 42, 28, 37, 4, 41, 14 Scorpio Spontaneity is the keyword right now, and it’s time to kick back and have some
Nominate Your Favorite Artiste
Lucky Numbers: 14, 4, 48, 25, 38, 35 Aries It should be easier to establish and maintain a maximum stride and this is the time to establish the ideal cruising speed for anything you’ve got under way. Everyone’s energies are more likely to be in sync so that the whole system kicks in and puts out without leaning too heavily on a single component. Love probability: 50% Lucky Numbers: 22, 43, 49, 14, 2, 16 Taurus You feel the desire to make several minor, but significant, adjustments in your work. For example, if you are engaged in a business activity, you may discontinue some advertising, use new sources for various services that you use, assign new tasks to employees, change advertising to appeal to a new market, make changes in the product line, etc. Love probability: 13% Lucky Numbers: 8, 21, 28, 4, 45, 2 Gemini Contacts made now will serve you well, and you won’t have to look back with suspicion or regret. If it feels right, it probably is, so put your best foot forward and follow through. Love probability: 20% Lucky Numbers: 41, 36, 21, 49, 43, 47
Pisces You could be the recipient or invitation or gift this week. You can respectfully attempt to decline but bear in mind that a refusal is tantamount to an insult. Be gracious at what is given, and remember that people often feel a sense of self worth through their generosity. Love probability: 9%
Cancer Meeting people who can benefit your career, getting together with colleagues, or getting to know your superiors on a more personal, friendly basis is quite likely at this time. Love probability: 24% Lucky Numbers: 20, 44, 37, 16, 22, 38
To RECOGNIZING
Artists & Educators In addition to the many business executives, community and government leaders who annually inspire the readers of Who’s Who in Black Detroit, the 2013 edition of Who’s Who will pay special tribute to artists, entertainers and 100 Top Educators in our community.
If you are a business executive, community leader, government leader, accomplished artist, entertainer, or educator Nominate yourself, or someone you know. Email their headshot and 180 word bio to detroit@whoswhopublishing.com Advertising and sponsorship opportunities are available. Call Cathy Nedd, Associate Publisher
(313) 963-8100
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE July 31 - Aug. 6, 2013 Page D-7 lifestyle New technology helps boomers and seniors have fun and stay in touch Whether you’re a technophobe who is reluctant to make new purchases, or you warmly embrace every trend, you may be excited to hear about user-friendly innovations, such as touch screen computers, that can make life easier and more fun: • Show and tell: Miss your grandkids? New desktop computers, laptops and two-in-one detachable PCs like the HP SlateBook x2 make it possible to communicate face-to-face without the need for travel. Use a Skype account and a built-in webcam to video chat with loved ones and friends. Set up afternoon appointments with your grandkids where they can share the big news of the school day with you in real time or read them a bedtime story from hundreds of miles away. • Dig up the past: Get the family together to take a quick trip back through time and explore your family heritage. Discover the root of your surname and explore your history. You’ll spark great conversation and maybe even a few funny stories from the past. Online software can help you create a family tree. • Be artistic: Need a stress-relieving activity? Why not take up painting? But rather than get your hands dirty, try a free application, such as Windows 8 FreshPaint,
Forgotten Harvest announces 11th Annual Champagne Cruise One of metro Detroit’s premier Dream Cruise preview events, the Forgotten Harvest Champagne Cruise, is returning for its 11th year this summer. The 11th Annual Champagne Cruise will take place on Friday, August 16, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at its signature Westborn Market location in the heart of the Dream Cruise at 27659 Woodward Ave. in Berkley. Set to the backdrop of nostalgic cruising on Woodward and the sounds of Motown, the Champagne Cruise will greet guests with a red carpet champagne reception featuring beverages by Atwater Brewing and Pommery Brut Royal. Sample fare will be offered by Westborn Market and some of metro Detroit’s best restaurants, including BD’s Mongolian Grill, Beans & Cornbread, Crispelli’s Bakery and Pizzeria, D’Amato’s, Detroit Seafood Market, The Hudson Café, Maggiano’s Little Italy, The Melting Pot, Oberweis Dairy, Peteet’s Famous Cheesecakes, Vinsetta Garage, Will Cole, and Zoup! Fresh Soup Co. Live music and entertainment will be provided by the Randy Brock Group, the Detroit Circus and Rock the Booth. Suggested attire is summer chic. The Champagne Cruise was created by the Anusbigian family of Westborn Market and has raised nearly seven million meals and more than $1.3 million in financial support for Forgotten Harvest. In 2012, the Champagne Cruise raised enough money for Forgotten Harvest to provide over 800,000meals to the community. “It’s our single largest event that we participate in and sponsor,” said Westborn Market Marketing Director Bryan Bandyk. “We’re honored and proud of having such a positive influence over the years. It’s a quality event; it’s a great cause, and it’s paired with the kickoff to the Dream Cruise itself, which is important to all of Southeast Michigan.” Tickets are $150 each ($100 of which is tax deductible) and are available online at www.forgottenharvest.org. Patron ticket packages, including four tickets and listing in the program book, are available for $750. Guests must be 21 years of age or older.
which offers a realistic alternative to oil painting, without the mess. And you don’t have to shell out for painting supplies. • Be a chef: You may already have a collection of favorite tried and true recipes. But it’s never too late to enlarge your collection. If you have an Internet connection, use it to find new recipes and save them to a computer program, such as HP Recipe Box, which is an easy way to organize and store
them. You can even print out a grocery list to save you time while planning. • Take it easy: For those with arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome, or those who just like things to be plain and simple, a touchscreen desktop PC such as the HP ENVY 23 TouchSmart All-in-One can provide much needed relief. You can browse the web, play games, and keep in touch without the need for a keyboard and mouse. More informa-
tion can be found at www. HP.com. • Play a game: From Scrabble to poker, you can play any of your favorite games even when you’re home alone. Either compete against the computer or play with faraway friends. You may not jump on board every consumer technology trend, so if you’re going to be selective, look for those technologies that can enrich your life.
Page D-8 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • July 31 - August 6, 2013
Education Achievement Authority schools give students the power to soar.
An Education Achievement Authority School provides students with longer school days and 40 more days of learning each year. Our schools offer a unique, student-focused curriculum that helps many of our kids learn at twice the rate of students at other schools. Twice the rate. Students also get free meals, access to computers and a safe place to learn every day. We give them a chance to soar. Enroll Today. Go to ICanSoar.org or call (313) 456-3010 for more information.
Education Achievement Authority of Michigan YEar end celebration & OPEN Enrollment Free
rs Little Caesa ruit, Pop, f o g y a F , a z Piz nacks water and s s All student s and parent invited!
Saturday, August 3 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Back-to-School fashion show featuring our students modeling school uniforms. Win gift cards for uniform shopping sprees!
Open enrollment for all students Pre-Kindergarten seats are available for children 3-5 years old. Kindergarteners who are 5 years of age on or before December 1, 2013 can enroll in kindergarten for September.
Incoming 9th Graders can enroll in high school. New & Transfer Students can enroll now. Education
FREE “I CAN SOAR“ BACKPACK FOR STUDENTS! New Program! Career & Technology Education There are more than 1000 Career & Technology Education spots available at our five high schools. The training will take place at area community colleges and Focus: Hope. For more information contact your school’s office.
Achievement Authority Schools are open to all students in Michigan.
- Mary M. Bethune Elementary/Middle School 8145 Puritan Street Detroit, MI 48221
- Central Collegiate Academy 2425 Tuxedo Street Detroit, MI 48206
- Burns Elementary/Middle School 14350 Terry Street Detroit, MI 48227
- Nolan Elementary/Middle School 1150 E. Lantz Street Detroit, MI 48203
- * Denby High School 12800 Kelly Road Detroit, MI 48224
- Law Academy Pre-Kindergarten - 8 19411 Cliff Street Detroit, MI 48234
- Phoenix Multicultural Academy 7735 Lane Street Detroit, MI 48209
- * Ford High School 20000 Evergreen Road Detroit, MI 48219
- * Mumford High School 17525 Wyoming Street Detroit, MI 48221 - * Pershing High School 18875 Ryan Road Detroit, MI 48234 - * Southeastern High School of Technology 3030 Fairview Street Detroit, MI 48214
* High Schools participating in the Career & Technology Education program
EDUCA
- Brenda Scott Elementary/ Middle School 18440 Hoover Street Detroit, MI 48205
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For more information call
313.456.3010