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POWERED BY REAL TIMES MEDIA

Volume 78 – Number 24

WHAT’S INSIDE Touching Communities. Touching Lives.™ A PUBLICATION OF MGM GRAND DETROIT

February 2015

MGM Grand Detroit salutes the Wright Museum for 50 years of service to our community

By Scott Talley Special to the Michigan Chronicle

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is observing its 50th anniversary throughout 2015, and all are invited to the celebration. In fact, this golden milestone would not be possible if not for the people of our community.

Continue on page 3

Inside This Issue • MGM Grand Detroit joins our community in celebrating the Wright Museum’s importance to our city and region.

• MGM Grand Detroit team members share special thoughts about inspiring African Americans.

• “Three Doctors” encourage Detroit youth to strive for greatness.

• And much more!

Women leadership panel (Page A-2) In honor of the remarkable achievements of an array of women leaders and activists, First Lady Michelle Obama hosted an event that featured an intergenerational panel of women who have been involved in the movement.

Appreciating, learning from the past (Page B-4) Ben Chavis, president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, stresses the importance of focusing on our long-lasting institutions, to learn from them and build upon what previous generations accomplished.

Second Baptist Church of Detroit (Page B-1) For almost 180 years, the contributions and influences of historic Second Baptist Church have been an essential aspect of the history of the city’s Black population, including its involvement with the Underground Railroad.

Detroit’s new planning director (Page C-1) Maurice Cox was recently appointed to the position of planning director by Mayor Mike Duggan. He has received national acclaim as a leader in community design and is widely respected for his ability incorporate active citizen participation.

Feb. 25 - March 4, 2015

michiganchronicle.com

Straight talk with Israel’s diplomat

By Bankole Thompson CHRONICLE SENIOR EDITOR

The last time Israel’s Consul General to the Midwest Roey Gilad and I got together was for dinner in Midtown last summer. At the time Gilad, who presides over the affairs of Israel Bankole for 11 states, was Thompson getting ready to go to Congregation Shaarey Zedek in Southfield

for a community-wide Israel Solidarity rally to address thousands of Jews in Southeast Michigan about the crisis between Israel and Hamas days after his return from Jerusalem. Part of the dinner menu was Detroit as a place with untapped potential and a city that Israel should seriously consider establishing meaningful ties with to promote trade and educational opportunities between the two.

Last Wednesday Gilad and I met again. This time it was for breakfast at Café Zola, but there was more to the regular menu.

Initially we were scheduled for

Chicago later that evening, he suggested we meet for breakfast instead.

Roey Gilad dinner at my house but due to last minute changes in his diplomatic schedule to return to

At breakfast it was clear that all seemed not too well right now between Israel and the United States, in light of Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming speech before Congress next month. The White House is furious that the Israeli leader did not notify President Obama and his administration about the visit as a matter of diplomatic protocol, respect and courtesy for the Office of the

See GILAD page A-3

Mayors issue verdict on

police conduct

By Bankole Thompson CHRONICLE SENIOR EDITOR

The U.S. Conference of Mayors’s Working Group of Mayors and Police Chiefs have made a set of recommendations coming on the heels of the crisis in Ferguson, Staten Island, New York and other incidents where police conduct have come under serious questioning.

After a four-month review of policing policies and practices nationwide during a community policing session at the group’s 83rd winter meeting in Washington, D.C, a series of changes are being recommended for police departments across the country.

At the heart of the report titled “Strengthening Policing-Community Relations in America’s Cities” is the trust between law enforcement and communities.

“Recent events have demonstrated that, despite instituting community policing in many departments and realizing substantial reductions in the crime rate in many cities, mistrust between the police and the communities they serve and protect continues to be a challenge that must be addressed,” the report noted.

“Police officers need to interact on a daily basis with the community to develop credibility and establish an ongoing dialogue with residents, including those with whom they may disagree, to help keep incidents from becoming crises.”

According to the report community policing must be much

Kevin Johnson

Stephanie Rawlings-Blake

Mick Cornett

more than one officer forming a relationship. It involves making inroads in the most challenged communities.

the role of a police chief.

flective of the community they serve. Departments may need to use nontraditional means to attract recruits who are representative of the diversity in the community. At the same time, departments need to perform thorough background checks on all applicants to help ensure that those who are accepted will become good police officers,” the report pointed out.

“Police officers should treat all people with dignity and respect. Given the history of tension, police should be particularly sensitive to minority communities. If people feel disrespected in their encounters with officers, the experience will leave a long lasting negative impact that will be shared with family and friends,” the report said. “The police should engage in problem solving partnerships with the community. Police should work to establish trusting relationships with community residents that can be the foundation for working together in times of crisis.”

The report also underscores

“The chief’s leadership, direction, focus and credibility are critical to the department’s success and to how it is viewed by the community. It is generally appropriate for the chief to take the lead, independent ofthe mayor, when serious incidents occur. The chief should be skilled in providing leadership in a crisis. The chief should be aware of resources and help (make them) available,” the report stated.

In the wake of the Ferguson crisis, one of the issues that came up was the lack of racial diversity with the Ferguson Police Department which was majority White.

“Police departments need to review recruiting and hiring practices to ensure they are re-

The kind of training police officers receive in their dealings in communities of color has also been at the forefront of cries for criminal justice reform.

The mayors’ report is recommending a change in procedure.

“Training

See POLICE

should

cover

CONDUCT page A-3

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan holds 10th Annual Supplier Diversity Achievement Awards Program

By Donald James SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE

Recapping a WONDERful tribute (Page D-1) The TV special “Stevie Wonder: Songs in the Key of Life — An All-Star Grammy Salute” was a success on every level.

Such great stars as John Legend, Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Tony Bennett, Babyface and Jill Scott were there to pay homage to the iconic star.

DAN LOEPP, CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, speaking at the diversity program.

More than 300 Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) vendors/suppliers, employees and other stakeholders attended the company’s 10th Annual Supplier Diversity Achievement Awards ceremony, held recently at BCBSM’s Lyon Meadows Conference Center in New Hudson, Mich. The morning event was convened to honor BCBSM’s many successful partnerships and collaborations with diverse suppliers through its procurement process. This year again recognized the power of diverse suppliers and their impact, not only to BCBSM, but to Michigan’s economy and population health, as well.

Awards were presented in 12 categories, including Blues Leader Supplier Diversity Champion Achievement Award, Supplier

LIVING

Magazine

$1.00

and discover what people are talking about.

“It is truly an honor to receive the Lifesecure – Diverse Supplier Achievement Award,” said Sarah Ayala Jones, president and owner of Southfield-based Michigan Office Design, Inc., a company that specializes in planning, designing and installing office space, and

See SUPPLIER

DIVERSITY page A-3

What’s on Your Plate?

Look inside this week’s

WELL

Diversity Champion Achievement Award, Health Care Value Diverse Supplier Achievement Award, Buyer Achievement Award, Team Project Award, Business Unit Award, Procurement Supplier Diversity Champion, Accident Fund-Diverse Supplier Achievement Award, Lifesecure – Diverse Supplier Achievement Award, New Diverse Supplier of the Year Award, Diverse Supplier Achievement Award – Women Business Enterprise (WBE), and Diverse Supplier Achievement Award – Minority Business Enterprise (MBE).

Find out the 5 food groups and how they work for you

March is National Kidney Month What’s on Your Plate? work for you Find out the 5 food groups and how they

March is National Kidney Month Be Your Kidneys’ Advocate

The Doctor Is In

What we all should know about kidney health

Be Your Kidneys’ Advocate

The Doctor Is In

What we all should know about kidney health

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Feb. 25 - March 3, 2015

Page A-2

Prime Politics Black women leaders talk about the power of education

By Joyce Jones BET

Women leaders and activists in the Civil Rights Movement have historically never been given their proper due. Even today, the names Martin Luther King Jr. and John Lewis are familiar to most people of any age, while the late Dorothy Height, president of the National Council of Negro Women, or publisher and activist Daisy Bates, who were instrumental in the struggle for equality, more likely than not don’t ring any bells.

In honor of these and other women’s achievements, First Lady Michelle Obama on Feb. 20 hosted a Black History Month event that featured an intergenerational panel of women who’ve been involved in the movement.

The panel included Carlotta Walls LaNier, member of the Little Rock Nine; Charlayne Hunter-Gault, activist and journalist; Sherrillyn Ifill, president and director-Counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund; Chanelle Hardy, National Urban League senior vice president for Policy and executive director of the National Urban League Washington Bureau; and Janaye Ingram, national executive director of the National Action Network. The discussion was moderated

by Vanessa K. De Luca, editor-in-chief ofEssence magazine.

“These women represent many different facets and eras of the movement,” the first lady said. “But there is something that connects each of their stories, a common thread that animates their lives, and that is their hunger for

and belief in the power of education.”

a safe neighborhood or send your child to a good school or give them the things they need to be successful or keep your house from going under water because you live among other black people and property values are not as high, that’s a real problem. Working on that requires us to work in political and policy process and it requires voting,” she said, adding that some of the obstacles are much the same, “which is why this work is hard [and] challenging.”

Perhaps just as important was the fact that despite their economic circumstances, and in some cases in spite of them, their parents allowed them to dream and believe that there was nothing they couldn’t achieve if they were determined to do so.

Citing the phrase “It takes a village,” Hunter-Gault recalled, “While we grew up in separate and unequal circumstances, our segregated communities protected us and taught us that when they couldn’t by law give us first class citizenship, they gave us a first class sense of ourselves.”

At age 8 or 9, Hunter-Gault “fell in love with the blue-eyed, red-haired (comic book character) Brenda Starr,” a glamorous and adventurous reporter. When she shared her desire to be just like Starr when she grew up, her mother encouraged her because she knew “instinctively that dreams propel ambition.”

Those dreams gave her the courage to face the angry mobs that threatened her when she became one of the first two Black students to integrate the University of Georgia. She also grew up to become an Emmy and Peabody Award-winning journalist. Education, her father told her, as his father had told him, was the key to her liberation.

In her office at the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Ifill has a photograph from 1969 in which she’s the only Black student in her class soon after New York City implemented busing. She is the youngest of 10 chil-

dren, raised by parents who didn’t have much but taught their children to value education and demanded academic excellence from them.

Her organization recently did a report on African-American girls and the many barriers they face in education.

Interestingly, they found that 55 percent of African-American girls think they will become leaders and 58 percent already consider themselves to be leaders. These findings resonated with Ifill because, although her father was “difficult” and didn’t let her go to dances, he always told her she was destined for greatness.

“It didn’t seem that big a deal. Only when I got older and went to college did I realize that people had dads who didn’t think they could excel in school or be a lawyer. I wanted to be a civil rights lawyer from the time I was a little kid.

It was never a conversation or a controversy; it was an expectation,” she said.

Her family didn’t have money for extravagances like vacations or even bicycles for the kids.

There were many more racial barriers than ex-

ist today, but there was a public infrastructure, from public schools to public colleges, that enabled Ifill and her siblings to not only go to college but also to earn advanced degrees. There also were summer jobs programs that helped develop the skills they needed to go out and get a job.

“And that’s how a family with 10 kids was able to do what my parents did with their determination and grit could do,” she said. “Yes, a lot of it comes from within us and our parents, but we also have to create an environment, a society, to receive people who want to achieve, who are ambitious, who have a sense of themselves as leaders. We have to give them the tools they need to live out their dreams.”

The period between when young girls believe they, too, are destined for greatness and what they ultimately become, Ifill said, is critical and society has a responsibility to help see them through. Young people today, she added, are living in a world in which that contract has been broken.

The panelists also discussed the differ-

‘Conflicts of interest’ could be eroding your savings and how we’re fixing it

By Valerie Jarrett

er-based plan, you could be losing out on tens of thousands of dollars in savings because your financial adviser is looking out for his best interest, not yours.

THE WHITE HOUSE

Thanks to the grit and determination of millions of American workers, America is experiencing resurgence — and every responsible worker in this country deserves the security of a dignified retirement.

You work hard every day to make ends meet and put a little away for yourself — for a much-needed vacation, college tuition for your children, or — your retirement. If you’re working hard to build a nest egg for your future, you should have the peace of mind that you’re receiving the most out of your savings and that your hard-earned investment is protected. As the president has said, this country does best when everyone gets their fair shot, everybody does their fair

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Valerie Jarrett share, and everyone plays by the same set of rules.

But right now, you might be surprised to hear that there are no rules to ensure that your financial advisers who invest your savings are acting in your best interest.

If you’re one of the more than 75 million families who are investing in an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or employ-

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For example, instead of directing you to a lowcost, high-return plan that does the most for your money, your financial adviser could be directing you to a high-cost, low-return plan that does not maximize your return on your investment.

Why? Because, under the current system, financial advisers may be receiving backdoor payments for steering you into an investment that pays more for the advisor and less for you. They could buy and sell investments more often than advisable just to collect hidden fees, or they could shift your existing savings from low-fee plans into higher cost ones.

It’s called a “conflict of interest.” It’s wrong. And currently, it’s legal. Take a look at this video to see exactly how conflicted advice may be costing you: Overall, retirement savers receiving conflicted advice lose roughly 1 percentage point per year.

This may seem small, but over a lifetime, that 1 percent could add up to a loss of more than a quarter of the savings a middle-class family could’ve otherwise built if they had received good advice.

Taken together, American savers lose $17 billion a year due to conflicts of interest.

Like your doctor or your lawyer, your retirement advisor should be required to do what is best for you. That is why President Obama’s administration is taking new action to protect hardworking families’ retirement security. The Department of Labor’s proposed updated

rule, known as a “fiduciary” standard, will require retirement advisers to put the best interests of their clients above their own financial interests. Many already do. But this rule will give more Americans peace of mind and the tools to build a secure retirement, by giving families the assurance that their retirement advisers are putting them first.

Your savings are the bedrock of your economic security when you decide to retire. You should have every dollar that you’ve earned and the best return on your investment.

Not a penny less. The president’s action will help empower you to make sure that your savings are protected and your future is secure.

ences between the civil rights movement of the past and now. Janaye Ingram of the National Action Network, noted that today the lines are not as black and white.

“When they’re confronted with situations of injustice or racism, and not even just for them but for all of us, it can be very hard to figure out was that a racist experience or was that something else. Was it gender bias, was it that this person just didn’t like me? it becomes very hard to see the line in the sand,” Ingram said.

She encourages young people at National Action Network to follow King’s model of nonviolent actions that also include modern-day tactics like die-ins.

The National Urban League, on the other hand, noted Hardy, takes an approach closer to that of Booker T. Washington’s.

“Supposedly everything’s open to us, but if you can’t afford to live in

So what advice would they give young women who would like to do civil rights work and be effective leaders in the 21st century?

Patience is important, counseled Hardy, as well as learning as much as possible about Black history.

“Arming yourself with that knowledge is powerful. And being in touch with your faith and your center so that you have something to sustain you beyond results because results might take a while,” she said.

The Catholic high school Ingram attended celebrated Multicultural History Month, which was an affront to the Black students. They believed that their history should be part of the year-round curriculum but the school could at least honor Black History Month. Ingram suggested a walkout during homeroom to call attention to the issue and the other students agreed.

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Gilad President of the United States.

To make matters worse, the defiant Republican House Speaker John Boehner, who extended the invitation to Jerusalem, only notified the White House an hour before he went public with the news.

On the other hand, Netanyahu doesn’t feel that the ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and Iran is a good omen for Tel Aviv, and is planning to make his case to the American public when he comes to Washington.

As Gilad and I exchanged pleasantries, shared personal stories and talked briefly about Detroit’s bankruptcy exit since our last get together, there was something hovering over breakfast like the Sword of Damocles: some powerful Black members of Congress plan to boycott Netanyahu’s speech to send a message to Israel. That threatens Black-Jewish relations at the highest levels of the federal government.

Key members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), led by civil rights hero and Georgia Congressman John Lewis and CBC chairman and North Carolina Congressman G.K. Butterfield, Detroit’s own Congressman John Conyers, the dean of Congress, New York Congressman Gregory Meeks and many others who view the failure to appropriately notify the White House of Netanyahu’s visit as disrespect to Obama, will either be a no-show during Netanyahu’s speech or have yet to commit to attend.

“To me, it is somewhat of an insult to the president of the United States. Barack Obama is my president. He’s the nation’s president, and it is clear, therefore, that I’m not going to be there, as a result of that, not as a result of the good people of Israel,” Meeks told Politico as he was leaving a lengthy White House meeting with Vice President Joe Biden and President Obama.

Another CBC member from Georgia, Rep. Hank Johnson, told Politico, “It’s not just about disrespect for the president, it’s disrespect for the American people and our system of government for a foreign leader to insert himself into an issue that our policymakers are grappling with. It’s not simply about President Obama being a Black man disrespected by a foreign leader.

It’s deeper than that.”

Black America’s loyalty to President Obama is not only unquestionable(from the number of Blacks who voted for him overwhelmingly twice) but is also a historical obligation.

For many, Obama represents the embodiment of the Black experience in varied ways. He is the product of the blood that was shed on “Bloody Sunday” during the March on Selma.

To every Black child, Obama is the most powerful example of the possibilities there are for them in an America that is reluctantly accepting the notion of real inclusion.

Even my own five-year-old son is enamored by Obama. He is not yet mature enough to understand the weight of history, but he already associates the American flag with Obama. When his preschool class two years ago held a mock election during the presidential campaign, he told his classmates to vote for Mitt Romney, but when it was his turn, he told his teachers he was voting for Obama.

Yes, America advanced into the palace of democracy by electing Obama twice. But for Black America it carries a deeper meaning than just having a president who is Black.

It means arriving at a cycle of history that is comprised of an essential bitter past. And the vilification and delegitimization campaign carried out by detractors of the first Black president, which continues into his second term with the latest psychological assault from a mainstream GOP leader, Rudy Giuliani, that Obama doesn’t love America, only goes to reinforce what many Blacks see: there is a deep reluctance and resentment in this nation to accept the legitimacy of the first Black president who was legitimately elected twice.

Since Obama became the occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, we’ve witnessed unbelievable assaults on the presidency in ways never seen before. From outrageous and nonsensical assertions that he is a Muslim to preposterous remarks like “We want our country back,” his critics have tried to remove any veneer of respectability for the office of the president because of the occupant.

Thus when the White House is not properly and duly notified of an invitation to Netanyahu

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Feb. 25 - March 4, 2015 Page A-3

From page A-1 to speak to Congress, many in Black America see this as part of the continued attempt to remove the veneer of respect for Obama, despite the storied history of Jews standing side by side with Blacks during the Civil Rights Movement. That is why prominent African Americans like Congressman Lewis, prophet of the Civil Rights Movement, who himself has led dialogue on Black-Jewish relations, quickly came to Obama’s defense and saying to Netanyahu in unmistakable terms, “Don’t disrespect our president.”

I told Gilad during our breakfast this could be a pivotal moment in Black-Jewish relations because it is bad for the historical record as well as the legacy of Black-Jewish relations, for Israel’s current Prime Minister to be placed in history as part of the coalition that failed to accept the legitimacy of the first Black president.

“I think it is not good for the CBC to not attend. I agree there might be a protocol blunder,” Gilad told me. “But we would like to have our day in the court of the American people which is the Congress. Could things have been done differently? Yes. But at the end of the day this is where we are. I don’t think there will be any setback because at the end of the day Israel will be the best U.S. ally in the Middle East.”

Gilad said he does recognize the potential fallout with Black lawmakers in Washington could strain relations between African Americans and Jews, and is something he’s discussed in Chicago prior to our breakfast meeting. But he maintained that the bond between Blacks and Jews is too important to be broken in light of what some only call a diplomatic hiccup.

But here’s the problem: it’s more than a diplomatic hiccup.

When Netanyahu comes to speak to Congress on March 3, his audience will be mostly Republican and mostly White.

If the members of the Congressional Black Caucus don’t show up it is very bad optics and is telling on a number of levels. Ironically, the leader of the Jewish state is coming to Washington, seemingly at loggerheads with President Obama, at a time when Blacks are preparing next month to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the March on Selma. That event will be headlined by Obama and is expected to be attended by all former living U.S. presidents except George H.W. Bush. Key in that historic march to Selma was Rabbi Abraham Joshua Herschel, a foremost liberation thinker and leader of the American Jewish community who was a staunch ally of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Herschel described his participation in the Selma march this way: “When I marched in Selma my feet were praying.”

In 2012, I began doing some research on Black-Jewish relations for a literary project. I was curious about the much-publicized rocky relationship between Netanyahu and Obama.

Because I wanted to document how these two leaders view each other, I decided to interview Israeli journalist Natasha Mozgovaya, who was the Washington bureau chief for Haaretz, Israel’s daily newspaper at the time.

“Personal relationship between leaders matters, and the two are obviously not in love with each other. They have different styles, in some spheres quite different ideology, and they surely had some awkward encounters. However, these moments received far greater attention than the negative impact it really had on the relationship between the countries,” Mozgovaya told me. “Did President Obama make a mistake talking publicly about disagreements over Jewish settlements?

Should Prime Minister Netanyahu have ‘lectured’ him during their press availabilities? These are questions for another discussion, but it’s quite clear President Obama didn’t voice criticism to undermine Israel standing, but merely gave his sober assessment of the perspectives.”

Bankole Thompson is the editor of the Michigan Chronicle. The author of “Obama and Black Loyalty,” his most recent book, “Obama and Christian Loyalty,” deals with the politics of the religious right, Black theology and the president’s faith posture across a myriad of issues. He is a senior political analyst at WDET-101.9FM (Detroit Public Radio). He is a member of the weekly “Obama Watch” Sunday roundtable on WLIB-1190AM New York. Email bthompson@michronicle.com or visit http://www.bankolethompson.com.

CAROLYNN WALTON, vice president and treasurer, BCBSM and Andy Hetzel, vice president of corporate communications for BCBSM present the Team Project Award to the HIPS Team: Accenture and W3R Consulting.

Supplier Diversity

From page A-1

has been a supplier to BCBSM for two decades. “We won because we helped Lifesecure, a subsidiary of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, with its space planning and managing, in terms of being able to accommodate the company’s many employees.”

Equally excited to be honored was Juliet Shrader, president and CEO of iVantage Group, a talent acquisition supplier based in Brighton, Mich. “I am very excited,” said Shrader, whose company won the Accident Fund – Diverse Supplier Achievement Award.

“This is the first time that we’ve received an award like this. We started our partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield about three years ago, and we take pride in the business that we do. This award is given because we have some outstanding salespeople that take good care of our clients.

It means that we find diversity as something that we want to promote. ” “This celebration of partnership, achievement and promotion of diversity by our suppliers and Blue Cross employees is even better than an Oscar or Emmy,” said Daniel J. Loepp, president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. “As we celebrate this milestone in supplier diversity partnering, it is a great feeling to know that Blue Cross has been there to help businesses grow, in many cases, from the ground up.

It is an even better feeling to know that our partnerships — aligned and built upon accountability, commitment and execution — are getting stronger each year.”

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit mutual insurance company, is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. BCBSM provides and administers health benefits to more than 4.4 million members residing in Michigan.

“As a valued partner to Blue

RON WOOD and Kirk Roy of BCBSM present the Blue Cross Procurement Supplier Diversity Champion Award to Janessa Huston- Banks Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, it’s an honor to continue to add value with Accenture, who has been a partner of ours, both in and out of Michigan,” said Eric Hardy, president and CEO of w3r consulting, a Southfield-based technology and staffing consulting company, whose team received the Team Project (HIPS) Award. “So coming together to add value to Blue Cross Blue Shield is something that we talked about for about two years, and we finally found a way to put a team together to do that. So the award is in recognition of that effort.”

ment Award: Joe Fritsch

The complete list of winners for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s 10th Annual Supplier Diversity Achievement Awards are as follows:

LifeSecure – Diverse Supplier Achievement Award: Michigan Office Design

New Diverse Supplier of the Year Award: Accurate Background, Inc. Accident Fund Holdings Inc. – Diverse Supplier Achievement Award: iVantage Group Blues Leader – Supplier Diversity Champion Achieve-

Business Unit Award: BCBSM Corporate Communications Buyer Achievement Kimberly Krueger

Award:

Diverse Supplier Achievement Award – Minority Business Enterprise: Moore Trosper Construction Company Diverse Supplier Achievement Award – Women Business Enterprise: Gongos Health Care Value – Diverse Supplier Achievement Award: J & B Medical Supply Company

Procurement Supplier Diversity Champion Awards: Janessa Huston-Banks Supplier Diversity Champion Achievement Award: Genpact-Jawood Healthcare Solutions Team Project Award: HIPS Team – Accenture and w3r Consulting

PAUL COLLIGAN, manager of Corporate Procurement, Accident Fund Holdings, and Said Tayim, vice president and chief information officer, Accident Fund Holdings, present the iVantage Group with the Diverse Supplier Achievement Award.

Police conduct

more than the procedures of policing. It should help police officers understand their role in a democratic society how to engage in constitutional policing,” the report recommended.

“Training must concentrate on preventing unwarranted use of force, offer officers alternatives to the use of lethal weapons, and clarify when use of lethal weapons is appropriate.

Training also must concentrate on community engagement and must reinforce the importance of treating residents with dignity and respect.

Officers must be trained in how to defuse incidents.Police officer training also must include methods for handling individualsexhibiting mental illness. People from outside of the department, including the clergy, should provide at least some of the training.”

On equipment, the report said, “Many departments already have appropriate standards

From page A-1 for the deployment of, and training related to, military and other equipment provided by the federal government to local police departments.

These standards should be in place in all departments that have such equipment.Body worn cameras can be an important tool, and funding to assist in purchasing cameras, providing training in and standards for their use, and appropriately storing data collected via cameras is essential if more departments are to be camera-equipped.”

The report was presented to the White House by the president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors Kevin Johnson the mayor of Sacramento, vice president Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, mayor of Baltimore, second vice president Mick Cornett, mayor of Oklahoma City and Tom, CEO and executive director of the group.

Bankole Thompson is editor of the Michigan Chronicle.

Page A-4 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Feb. 25 - Mar. 3, 2015

SECTION B

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A Black History Month Profile

Historic Second Baptist Church, the Underground Railroad and freedom tracks to Canada

By Donald James

starting First Baptist Church in Windsor Ontario Canada in 1853.

SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE

Second Baptist historians have noted that slave abolitionists such as Frederick Douglass, John Brown and Sojourner Truth were frequent speakers at Second Baptist. On Jan. 6, 1863, the church organized and presented a public reading of the Emancipation Proclamation, just days after President Abraham Lincoln issued the act that abolished slavery in Confederate states.

For almost 179 years the influences and contributions of Second Baptist Church of Detroit have been an essential aspect of the storied history of the city’s Black population. Located at 441 Monroe Ave. in downtown Detroit, Second Baptist is BLACK HISTORY the oldest B l a c k MONTH church in Michigan and is believed to be the oldest Black congregation of any religion in the Midwest. The church is actually older than the state of Michigan.

Second Baptist was founded in 1836 by 13 ex-slaves, who wanted a better atmosphere for worship than the discriminatory one offered by the White congregation that filled the pews each Sunday at First Baptist Church of Detroit, which was founded in 1827.

Blacks were forced to sit in the balcony of First Baptist and had no say in church business.

From its inception, Second Baptist was a strong beacon of light and advocacy for freedom, equality, civil rights, human rights, education and social justice for Black people in Detroit and beyond. Rev. William C. Monroe, who was also an activist, served as Second’s first pastor.

In 1839, Second Baptist set up Detroit’s first school for Black children after they were repeatedly denied the

Kevin M. Turman right to attend White schools in the city. In 1841, Second Baptist leadership created the Baptist Association for Colored People in Amherstburg, Ontario. Second Baptist leaders, including Monroe, served as the Canadian organization’s early moderators.

The church would go on to host the State’s Convention of Colored Citizens (1843 and 1865), which presented viable platforms that demanded voting rights for colored people, and for the unconditional and immediate end to slavery in the United States. Second Baptist also organized the Canadian Anti-Slavery Baptist Association, and was one of the principle organizers in

Yet, to better understand the historic influence and powerful impact of Second Baptist, especially as the last stop of the historic Underground Railroad, one must go back several decades before the church was established and look at the state of the Negro in Detroit and at the legal slave-holding states in the South.

In 1760 there were 62 Black slaves in Detroit and in 1779, three years after the United States claimed its independence, the number had grown to 141. There were million of slaves in southern states. However, slavery in Michigan was abolished in the mid1830s, which led to an influx of Black people — free and escaped slaves — streaming to the state, more specially, to Detroit which overlooked Canada, “the Promise Land” for runaway slaves seeking freedom.

From 1836 to 1865, many escaped slaves journeyed from the South to Detroit, and eventually to Canada via the See SECOND

BAPTIST page C-2

We’re ready for a new ‘Freedom Budget’

By Marge Robinson, R.N PRESIDENT, SEIU HEALTHCARE MICHIGAN

As much of the nation uses Black History Month to reflect on the progress we have made over the past 50 years in the area of social and racial justice — and we have made significant progress — far too many of us fail to remember another critical component of the Civil Rights Movement: economic justice.

Unfortunately, we have been far less successful in that arena and deserve much less applause. But in light of the profoundly increased income inequality we have experienced as a nation over the last several decades, it’s worth noting how prescient the architects of that pillar of the Civil Rights Movement were when they advocated for a “Freedom Budget” for all Americans.

During the most intense moments of the Civil Rights Movement when the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was leading marchers across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, in a quest for voting rights, hundreds of miles north

in Washington, DC, and New York, his civil rights colleague, Bayard Rustin, labor leader A. Philip Randolph and economist Leon Keyserling were busy crafting the A. Philip Randolph Institute’s Freedom Budget.

hoped to obtain the employment objectives from, among other things, massive public work and infrastructure repair programs and, most notably, an increase in the minimum wage.

Rustin, Randolph and King were under no illusions when they advocated for the Freedom Budget. It was a thoughtful, aspirational document that was achievable only with a change in economic priorities. The drain of the Vietnam War and internal strife among civil rights leaders made such a goal too difficult.

Sound familiar?

When the budget was Although the Freeintroduced in the fall of dom Budget would 1966 it had 11 primary never went anywhere in goals: the abolition of Congress, it provided poverty, guaranteed full a progressive roadmap employment, full profor future real budgets. duction and high ecoDecades later, labor nomic growth, adequate leaders, advocates for minimum wages, farm the poor and politicians income parity, guarconcerned with equity Marge Robinson anteed incomes for all have pushed for similar unable to work, a decent home for every economic and employment objectives American family, modern health ser- that focus on empowering people and vices for all, full educational opportu- strengthening our economy by lifting nity for all, updated Social Security and people out of poverty through a livable welfare programs, and equitable tax and wage, equitable tax and trade policies money policies. and access to healthcare for all Ameri-

As our elected leaders and political hopefuls search for a way forward, they only need look to the Freedom Budget as a guide. A livable wage attached to stable employment should be the foundation for good government – leading to a fair economy for us all. Addressing other critical needs such as education and tax parity should round out that plan rather than serving as a political football.

The advocates, including Dr. King,

cans.

Clearly, the Freedom Budget and those who created it embody a rich legacy that should be honored this month. If we are to be true to the spirit and legacy of Dr. King, Bayard Rustin and A. Philip Randolph, a modern-day Freedom Budget should be this generation of leaders’ legacy.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Feb. 25 - March 3, 2015

Page B-2

Second Baptist From page B-1 Underground Railroad, which was a well-organized system, where runaway slaves walked and sometimes were secretly transported by wagons through backwoods and secret paths under the guidance of conductors to freedom.

Along the way from the South, there were numerous safe houses owned

by White people, many of whom were Quakers and believed that slavery was legally and morally wrong. Runaway slaves were given food and shelter until it was time to travel to the next safe house, something that was repeated over and over along hundreds of miles of the Underground Railroad.

The passing of the Fugitive Slave Act by the United States Congress in 1850 was no cure for ending slavery, as it granted slave owners and their hired slave catchers and bounty hunters the right to track down and bring back runaway slaves to the origin of escape. Even free Blacks living in free states feared being captured by slave catchers and bounty hunters. After President Millard Fillmore signed the bill into law, it is estimated that close to 6,500 Blacks — free and runaways — fled

to Canada within three months.

While there were several other routes of the Underground Railroad that led runaway slaves to such Canadian cities and territories as Montreal, New Brunswick and Halifax, the most traveled and most famous route ended in Detroit, the city that sat across the Detroit River from Canada.

The church boldly ignored the Fugitive Slave Act by giving runaway slaves safe shelter, food and clothing before the freedom seekers were escorted to the banks of the Detroit River to cross into Canada.

Why was Canada “the Promised Land” for so many runaway slaves?

Talks of abolishing slavery in Canada can be traced to 1792, when a bill was introduced to its governing body. The bill, however, fell off the table. Yet in 1834, slavery was officially outlawed

by Canadian lawmakers, which was 29 years before America’s Emancipation Proclamation was enacted. Word quickly spread to slaves in the southern states of America pertaining to Canada’s intolerance for slavery and its open arms to welcome Black people seeking a new life.

By

the

mid-1800s,

many escaped slaves who made their way to Canada from Detroit settled in Windsor, Sandwich and Amherstburgh, Ontario. Others settled in communities near Chatham. Other areas where great a number of Blacks chose to live included the Buxton/Elgin Settlement in Raleigh Township of

Kent County, as well as in townships and cities such as Dresden, London, Hamilton and Toronto.

In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. In 1865, after the end of the Civil War and the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution abolishing slavery, the Underground Railroad came to a halt.

When the Underground Railroad ended, Second Baptist had accounted for helping more than 5,000 runaway slaves to find their way to the shores of freedom in Canada.

Even after slavery, this storied church continued to be an advocate of change for thousands of Black people who came to the city — again. This time, Blacks were part of the Great Migration that brought hundreds of thousands, mostly African Americans from the

South, to Detroit to work in its growing automobile industry.

In 1919, Henry Ford retained the services of a Second Baptist minister, Rev. Robert Bradby, to help find Negro workers for Ford’s assembly plants in the area. Henry Ford trusted Bradby’s integrity and judgment to such an extent that he asked the pastor to also serve as a mediator when tensions flared between Black and White workers at local Ford facilities.

Bradby, who was Second Baptist’s 19th pastor when he accepted the position on Nov. 1, 1910, had built a good reputation in all Detroit circles, Black and White.

He had already helped organize the Detroit branch of the NAACP in 1912. He later, in 1925, served as the branch’s first president.

The contributions of Second Baptist Church are too many to list.

There is no doubt that this church’s 179-year existence has been that of a major advocate and agent for change for the empowerment of Black people.

Today, Second Baptist Church of Detroit is listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, and is registered as a Michigan State Historic Site.

“Second Baptist Church is still very much on the battlefield,” said Rev. Kevin M. Turman, who has served as the church’s senior pastor since 1988. “We have a great history and it’s my perspective that the importance of the Gospel must be felt outside the walls of this church.

Therefore, I’m happy to lead a congregation whose history says that this is what we should be doing.”

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community

February 25- March 1

February 28 - May 17

Black History Month at the Henry Ford Museum

‘Photographs from the Detroit Walk-In Portrait Studio’

Henry Ford Museum 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn

Detroit Institute of Arts

The Henry Ford Museum celebrates Black History Month with interactive displays, music and dramatic performances. Times very, Feb. 25-28, March 1. Cost: $20/ages 13-61, $15/ages 5-12, free/4 and under; $6/parking.

For more information, call 313.982.6001.

February 27

5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit See “Photographs from the Detroit Walk-In Portrait Studio” by Dutch-born photographer Corine Vermeulen in this mixed media exhibition. Free with museum admission.

For more information, call 313.833.7900.

February 28

Ford-employees African Ancestry Network 34th Annual Black History Month Celebration

‘Oh Ananse!’ at PuppetART Detroit Puppet Theater

6:00 pm Dearborn Inn 20301 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn

25 E. Grand River Ave. Detroit,

The Ford-employees African Ancestry Network (FAAN) presents the 34th Annual Black History Month Program. It starts at 6 pm and includes a strolling supper, entertainment and dancing immediately following the program.

General admission: $50 or $125 VIP. For more information, call 313.594.0688.

February 28 - April 27 Noir Film Series 7 pm Michigan Theater 603 E. Liberty St. Ann Arbor The Michigan Theater and State Theatre in partnership with Nicola’s Books is pleased to present The Noir Film Series which began Monday, Jan. 12, and continues weekly through the end of April. Cost: $7-$10.

Feb. 25 - Mar. 3, 2015

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Detroit Puppet Theater

Blending West African folktale with rap music and hip-hop attire, this puppet show offers a unique, modern twist. Show starts at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 28, 10 a.m. Cost: $10/adults, $5/kids; $8/puppet-making after show.

For more information call 313.961.7777.

February 28 Detroit Symphony Orchestra performs 1812 Overture Orchestra Hall 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit Join Leonard Slatkin and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in a festival celebrating the life, music and magic of Tchaikovsky with six symphonies and much more. Performance times vary. Cost: $15-$100.

For more information call 313.576.5111.

Page B-3

March 6-7

March 1 Metro Parent Camp Expo 2015

Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s Classical Roots Celebration at the Max M. Fisher Music Center

Detroit Country Day Lower School 3003 W. Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills The Metro Parent Camp Expo 2015 is everything parents and kids need to know about the best camps offering fun in the sun this summer. Preregistered guests are entered to win a camp scholarship of up to $500.

For ticket information, call 248.398.3400.

March 1

Max M. Fisher Music Center 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit This year’s Classical Roots celebration concert, led by Hollywood Bowl principal conductor Thomas Wilkins, features the work of George Walker, the first African American Pulitzer Prize winning composer, performed by his son, Gregory Walker. The two-day celebration includes a performance at 10:45 a.m. on March 6 and at 8 p.m. on March 7.

COST: $15-$100.

Charlie Wilson and guests at Joe Louis Arena

For more information, call 313.576.5111.

Charlie Wilson brings the “Forever Charlie” tour to Detroit with special guests Kem and Joe. He will perform his solo hits as well as those from the Gap Band years. Cost: $70.75$116.70

For more information, call 800.745.3000.

March 1 “Oh, Freedom!” at the Detroit Opera House

March 14 Kris Johnson’s Jazz Express in Detroit 10:00 am Detroit Symphony Orchestra Hall 3711 Woodward Ave.

Trumpeter Kris Johnson takes you on a family-friendly, interactive musical journey exploring the world of jazz. Cost: $12.

For more information call 313-576-5111.

Detroit Opera House 1526 Broadway St. Detroit “Oh, Freedom!” is a musical journey through African-American history, in celebration of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History’s 50th anniversary, starring renowned singer Patti Austin.

For more information, call 800.745.3000

For a full list of films and showings and more information, call 734.761.8667.

Email Your Upcoming Events to events@michronicle.com

C SPR OM ING ING , 20 15

AC H I

The Michigan Chronicle is proud to present our 2014 fall school choice guide, ACHIEVE! Despite many changes over the past few years, too few tools exist to help parents easily navigate through today’s educational landscape.

ACHIEVE! aims to identify the options, issues and performance of Metro Detroit schools, while exposing existing disparities between school types and districts. ACHIEVE! offers an unbiased view of public, magnet, private or charter school options worthy of exploration, in addition to high-quality after school, tutoring and other programs that support urban households.

Our educational guide gives parents the tools not only to identify the “best” schools, but also to choose the best school for their child.

Over 50,000 copies of ACHIEVE! have been distributed throughout metro Detroit via insertion in the Michigan Chronicle, direct drops at targeted schools, libraries, resource centers, local churches and retail chains.

EVE! Scho

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Page B-4

CATHY NEDD Chief Operating Officer BANKOLE THOMPSON Senior Editor RIAN BARNHILL Managing Editor SAMUEL LOGAN Publisher 1933-2011 JOHN H. SENGSTACKE Chairman-Emeritus 1912-1997 LONGWORTH M. QUINN Publisher-Emeritus 1909-1989

Hi-tech must give priority to diversity

By Kim Keenan This revolution will definitely not be televised.

in 2012 to 34.4 million in 2060, with its share of nation’s total population climbing from 5.1 percent to 8.2 percent in the same period.

“Among the remaining race groups, American Indians and Alaska Natives would increase by more than half from now to 2060, from 3.9 million to 6.3 million, with their share of the total population edging up from 1.2 percent to 1.5 Here we have a real game changer, percent. The Native Hawaiian and Other and the faint praise of Intel CEO Bri- Pacific Islander population is expected an Krzanich’s decision to establish a to nearly double, from 706,000 $300 million dollar “Diversity to 1.4 million. The number in Tech” initiative – or Jesse of people who identify themJackson’s efforts at prodding selves as being of two or more the industry – is almost as bad races is projected to more than as the conditions that created triple, from 7.5 million to 26.7 the need for the fund in the million over the same period. first place.

“The U.S. is projected to Almost. become a majority-minority nation for the first time in By stepping up and lead2043…” ing tech companies out of the same old thinking about how In that world, a company to create a diverse workforce, Kim Keenan that only sees White will find Intel is opening the door for competitive challenges to keep others in the tech world to ensure that up with a world that sees everything the age of innovation looks like all of but White – green will be the driver of America. what companies look like, and not just Last month, Apple included two es- in tech. tablished minority-owned firms in its This is not a handout by any means. $6.5 billion debt offering, which was the This is a hand up to a solid future for largest high-grade corporate bond sale our communities of color. We are drivthis year – until Microsoft followed with ers of all aspects of this new economy. a $10.75 billion debt offering that in- Our money powers micro chips, search cluded four minority-owned firms. This engines, and every handheld device on is the kind of action befitting the com- the planet. Diversity as a core value is panies in the vanguard of changing the more about staying connected with your world we live in. customers so that they do not discard The business case is clear. People of you for the next new shiny thing than it color and women are among the highest is about giving something away.

Even more key is the Intel’s decision consumers of all things tech, and there to be the first Silicon Valley Firm to recare too many of us to be ignored. ognize Martin Luther King’s birthday as The Census Bureau figures tell the a holiday. The message is clear. This is story. not a Black holiday, but a holiday that “The non-Hispanic White population reflects the American spirit. Service reis projected to peak in 2024, at 199.6 ally is the rent we pay for our time here million, up from 197.8 million in 2012. on earth. With all of the progress and all Unlike other race or ethnic groups, of these gadgets, we expect cutting edge however, its population is projected to companies to produce cutting edge anslowly decrease, falling by nearly 20.6 swers. If we can locate your phone, your million from 2024 to 2060,” the Census keys, and seats to that sold-out game, it Bureau reported. would never make sense that we have no “Meanwhile, the Hispanic population idea where or even how to find qualified would more than double, from 53.3 mil- people of color? Somewhere, someone lion in 2012 to 128.8 million in 2060. is feeling my déjà vu.

The actions taken by Intel, Apple, Consequently, by the end of the period, nearly one in three U.S. residents would and Microsoft demonstrate that they be Hispanic, up from about one in six recognize that good business requires action to get us on track. We cannot today. wait for a perfect pipeline of engineers “The Black population is expected to before we diversify the tech industry. We increase from 41.2 million to 61.8 mil- already have marketing reps, lawyers, lion over the same period. Its share of engineers, and executives in all colors, the total population would rise slightly, so we can start right where we are now from 13.1 percent in 2012 to 14.7 per- while working to expand the pipeline for cent in 2060. the future. At stake is an America that “The Asian population is projected can provide jobs for all, and not just for to more than double, from 15.9 million a chosen few.

When Intel announced that it would spend $300 million over the next five years to create a workforce that actually looks like America, the coverage of the announcement was scant.

Questions about the measles controversy

By Bill Fletcher, Jr. I have to confess that I really cannot believe the measles controversy. The issue of vaccinations had been settled, at least so I thought, until I realized that instead of science, there is an increased reliance on, forgive me for this expression, “urban myths.”

demonstrated. Women who contract the measles during pregnancy face the very real risk of their baby having birth defects.

It is for this reason that the current debate about the measles vaccination is so myopic and wrong-headed. We should be more concerned about what happens when an illness that is preventable is let loose and its impact on vulnerable populations. This is not mainly an issue of children catching the measles from others, but rather its impact on others.

I remember first encountering a major urban myth in connection with the suggestion that there were/are alligators in the New York City sewer system. Proponents of this myth were always so cerLet me tell you a story. At tain and so definitive that it the age of 39, I contracted seemed that there was little chicken pox. I had thought question as to the validity of that I had had it as a child. I the story, i.e., that baby allimay have had contact with it gators had been flushed down Bill Fletcher, Jr. but I never had a full blown toilers and now haunted the case. When I got it, two weeks sewer system. There was only one prob- after my then 4-year-old contracted it, I lem: it was not true. thought that I was going to die. The levWhat I learned from this is that many el of pain, misery and weakness helped people can and will adopt a certain view- me to truly understand why it can be point irrespective of the facts if it sub- fatal for adults to contract “childhood stantiates an opinion or fear that they illnesses.” have. This seems to have become the When you are thinking about the case in the matter of measles. The sug- measles vaccination issue consider this gestion that the measles vaccination carefully. Think about the vulnerable will result in autism has been repeated populations. This is really not a persontime and again. Is it possible that there al decision, to be honest. This is a sowill be side effects with the vaccination? cial decision, that is, the decision of the There are possible side effects with any individual potentially has a far broader vaccination, but the percentages are so impact than on one child or even one infinitesimally small. Yet, if one wants family. to, one can worry about this endlessly.

An embrace of myths about the meaYet, I will suggest something that is sles vaccination is really about throwing actually worth worrying about and, yes, the dice, with the well-being of others at it is in connection with measles and, no, issue. it has nothing to do with a side-effect of Bill Fletcher, Jr. is the host of “The the vaccination: birth defects. People infected and contagious with measles rep- Global African” on Telesur-English. He resent an immense danger to pregnant is a racial justice, labor and global juswomen. This is a fact and it has been tice writer and activist.

Carrying the burden of history

By Benjamin Chavis

Why is this important and relevant 239 years later? It is important because In observance of Black History Black history did not start on a slave Month, I believe it is important to high- plantation in the south of the U.S. Prior light some of those long-lasting institu- to the birth of what is now the United tions and entities that have continued States, African people in America were to serve the empowerment interests engaged and involved in promoting uniof Black America for over the past 200 ty to advance the cause of freedom and years. Too often some of us forget too liberty. The evidence and truth about quickly about the historical groups and the historic and contemporary contribusocial bridges that have helped to bring tions of Prince Hall Masons to advance Black America across troubled and per- our interests needs to be better known ilous waters during the last two centu- and understood today by 44.3 million Black Americans. ries.

The history of African people is as One group that immediately comes to mind is known today as the Grand old as the history of humanity. Given the fact that racism and raLodge of Prince Hall Masons. cial discrimination are still They have grown exponenprevalent throughout the U.S. tially from their first lodge in today means that we have to Boston in 1787 to numerous remain vigilant and commitmasonic lodges throughout ted to keep pushing forward the United States. to improve the quality of life Without a lot of external for our families and commufanfare or public boasting nities. Similar to the fundaabout the accomplishments mental necessity of maintainof Prince Hall Masons, the ing the Black church, press, facts are that this organizabusinesses and Historically tion of skilled and talented Benjamin Chavis, Jr Black Colleges and Universi“Brothers” have been consisties (HBCUs), the issue content in contributing to the long protract- cerning our awareness of the good work ed progress of Black America. The living of historic groups such as the Prince legacy of Prince Hall is still focused on Hall Masons is equally important. the mission of providing leadership of My great grandfather, grandfather high moral character, charitable assistance to those in need, and steadfast and father were all Prince Hall Masons. support of freedom, justice, equality and I know first-hand about the many differempowerment for Black Americans and ent orphanages, schools, medical clinics, hospitals, rest homes, many other all people. charitable institutions that they have Who was Prince Hall? He was one of built across the nation and maintained the earliest Black abolitionists against for all these years serving to uplift Black the slavery of African people in America America. We must teach our young peoin the mid-1700s. He was a Free Black ple today about the proud traditions and leader in Boston who was proud of his legacies of our fore parents. No matter African ancestry and committed to im- what circumstances that we have had prove the quality of life of African people to face, we have always found the ways during the early founding years of the and the means to look after one another United States. Prince Hall was a Black with respect, care, giving and love That American freedom fighter who, like Cy- challenge and obligation continues toprus Attucks, fought bravely in the Rev- day. olutionary War. Black History Month, yes, is a time Prince Hall was one of the first Black for reflection and memory of the past.

Americans to be made a mason in Amer- But we must learn from the past and ica on March 6, 1775 in Boston. Inter- build upon what previous generations estingly, he and 14 other Black men ini- have built as a foundation. Let’s celtially established and named their first ebrate Black history by renewing our lodge: African Lodge #1 on July 3, 1776, determination and spirit to uplift all one day before the United States Decla- of our families and communities. Let’s ration of Independence was adopted and strengthen our institutions and busiissued on July 4, 1776. nesses, in particular our HBCUs are in Once again this was a bold historic critical need of financial support. Let’s move by Hall and his masonic brothers learn from the sustainable tradition of with the clear unambiguous intention to Prince Hall: unify, build, outreach to stand up and work for African liberation care for others, demand justice and freeand empowerment as a sacred frater- dom, and enjoy the blessings of life to nity. Hall was named master of African ensure a better future for those who will Lodge#1. Years later, after his passing, come after we have transitioned. the name of the lodge was changed to Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is president the Prince Hall Grand Lodge Free and and CEO of the National Newspaper Accepted Masons.

Publishers Association (NNPA)

A different standard for Black girls

By LeConté J. Dill

unjust punishment than Black boys.

Nearly 40 years ago, a metaphor or fable, if you will, about “upstream-downstream” was created by healthcare practitioners to better explain and argue for the value of preventative health care measures. The fable describes a group of community members standing near a river who witness someone drowning.

Some of the community members jump into the water and pull the person to the shore. As soon as they do so, they try to resuscitate her.

Girls of color are often more harshly punished for non-violent offenses that educators have coded as “disruptive” and “disrespectful.” They are sometimes punished for behavior that would be viewed as innocuous for boys. For instance, one girl interviewed for the report explained: “Some of the girls did have this sense of frustration, that there is a different standard for girls’ behavior versus boys. So boys seem to just get more looking the other way, or more tolerance of even the exact same behavior.”

Then, another drowning person floats down the river; and as the community recruits more lifesavers, still more drowning people float past them. Eventually, someone thinks to go upstream to find out what was causing so many people to be pulled into the river.

They are also experiencing multiple forms of violence before they even walk through the school doors. They are ingesting trauma for breakfast.

Its embedded in the pressures of serving as quasi-mothers for younger family members, enduring physical, sexual, mental, and emotional abuse More recently this fable LeConte Dill at home, and leaving their has been used as a metaphor for those lost in the midst of a failing homes with no safe route to school in educational system in an effort to get neighborhoods that have literally been Americans to look upstream to see the disinvested in by city and corporate ofsources of the problem; and to query ficials. why so many of the failing students are Once they reach their schools, they people of color. often find the buildings and classrooms If we think of those upstream deter- to be unsafe. Many schools that serve minants as structural barriers, what low-income youth and students of color happens when girls of color are pushed have permanent metal detectors. These out of educational systems that are schools are coded as “dropout factosupposed to support them? How can a ries,” known for graduating less than 60 path be cleared for them that serves as a percent of the 9th graders who attend bridge to economic stability, and optimal them. life outcomes? In a new report, “Black Let’s call for public policies and innoGirls Matter: Pushed Out, Over-policed vative programs tailored to their needs; and Underprotected,” the African Amer- and let’s acknowledge that when girls ican Policy Forum examines these con- are pushed out of school lasting effects cerns in New York City and Boston. The spill over into every aspect of their lives. report breaks down data by race and gen- Let’s lend a hand before the girls are der, and its findings are disturbing. In forced to fend for themselves.

New York, for instance, in the 2011-2012 LeConté Dill is an assistant professchool year, Black girls were disciplined 10 times more often than White girls. In sor at the State University of New York fact, in some settings Black girls were (SUNY) Downstate School of Public found to face a greater racialized risk of Health.

education SCHOOL

OF T HE

W EEK

SCHOOL OF THE

WEEK:

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Feb. 25 - Mar. 3, 2015

Page B-5

Henderson Academy

443.

This is the number of male mentors that Principal Deborah Manciel is determined to secure for the 443 young men of Henderson Academy. Through programs such as My Brother’s Keeper launched in January 2015, roughly 40 male students have been introduced to positive, career-driven male role models who help the students prepare for high school, college and career readiness. Seeing the impact that the program is having on her students, Manciel is putting out a call to action for more male mentors at Henderson.

Located on the city’s west side in the Cody Rouge neighborhood, the community surrounding Henderson is known to be tough, Manciel says. But programs like My Brother’s Keeper, DAPCEP (Detroit Area Pre-College Engineering Program), STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) programs, the 2015 Future City Competition, and the Michigan Department of Education’s TRAC Program – coupled with educators who treat each student as their own children – help Henderson students realize their success isn’t defined by their zip code.

“Every day, I try to remind my students that in spite of life’s challenges, they can live out their dreams,” says Manciel, a 35-year veteran educator.

“In spite of their plight, circumstances, or social status, they can overcome all of those obstacles and achieve whatever they want by obtaining a high-quality education. And we give them that here at Henderson.”

Serving roughly 800 students, Henderson offers grades Pre-K-8. Although just as many mentoring programs are in place for girls, Manciel said she feels a special need to secure one-on-one mentorships for the boys.

The men of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated, Xi Beta Sigma Chapter, announced a partnership with Detroit Public Schools in January to provide the My Brother’s Keeper mentoring program at Henderson, the first school in the district to adopt the

to design a virtual city using SimCity software; research and write an essay addressing the contest theme; build a model of their city using recycled materials; write a brief narrative promoting their city; and present their city before a panel of judges at the Regional Competition.

nation-wide program. Launched by President Barack Obama, My Brother’s Keeper aims to address persistent opportunity gaps faced by boys and young men of color and ensure that all young people can reach their full potential.

“They are really starting to turn our students around,” Manciel says. “I see a lot of character building and leadership molding. It’s only the beginning, but I see a difference. Our young men need these types of relationships to succeed in life.”

Bryant’s students created a city with white streets that better reflect energy to keep the climate cooler, vertical rooftop farms, and buildings with LED Lighting.

Chapple’s special education students built a city with lots of parks, clean air, and places where they can ride bikes. The group won the award for the healthiest city from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.

Efforts to ensure students prosper at Henderson go far beyond mentoring programs.

Educators like 7th grade science and DAPCEP teacher Wanda Bryant and Dianna Chapple, who teaches cognitively impaired 6th through 8th grade special education students, are constantly looking for new programs to provide their students with exposure to various careers.

“I noticed that when my kids competed in the Future City Competition – where they were the only special education class that competed, and they came back with a trophy – a lot of kids began to realize, ‘They’re just as smart as us,’” says Chapple.

“Just because they may have trouble with reading, they may be pretty good in another subject.”

Bryant’s students participate in a program titled TRAC (Transportation and Civil Engineering) sponsored by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). The students have been charged with building different transportation modules including a bridge module where the students utilize engineering software to design the bridge. Once the design is complete, they have to build a 12-inch bridge made of wood. The bridge that holds the most weight will win the MDOT TRAC competition. All program proposals were due on February 20, 2015. If Henderson’s bridge module is selected, the students will travel to Grand Rapids to stay overnight and compete against schools across the state.

Chapple’s students have a few more bragging rights outside of winning the Future City Competition Healthiest City Award. Five students recently competed in the Special Winter Olympics and all earned medals in snowshoeing. They also participated in the Special Olympics: Project UNIFY where special education students are paired with traditional education students to help build respect toward everyone’s differences.

More offerings at Henderson: Creative Writing, Computer Labs, Netbooks, Robotics, Conflict Resolution, Mobile Library, Cheerleading, Basketball, Physical Education, Project Seed, Glory Math, Response to Intervention, Tutoring/Extended Day Program, Accelerated Reading/Math Program, Arts, DAPCEP, Go Green Environmental Program.

Both Bryant and Chapple coordinated separate groups of students to participate in the 2015 Future City Competition presented by the Engineering Society of Detroit (ESD) in January at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi. Henderson students took home awards for “Best Use of Materials” and “Most Healthy Community.”

Henderson Academy

According to ESD, Future City is a cross-curricular educational program where students in 6th, 7th and 8th grades imagine, design, and build cities of the future. Over a four-month period, students work as a team with an educator and volunteer mentor

16101 W Chicago, Detroit MI, 48228 Phone: (313) 852-0512 • Fax: (313) 852-0523 Principal: Deborah Manciel

RESULTS Mentoring celebrates Sweet 16, honors ‘difference makers’ in our community RESULTS Mentoring, a non-profit behavioral intervention and mentoring program, will celebrate Sweet 16, sixteen years of serving troubled and at-risk students at its 5th Annual Partnership Gala. The event, which will be held on Friday, March 6, at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, will raise much-needed funding for behavior intervention for students throughout metro Detroit. The evening’s program will be followed by a Sweet 16 afterglow reception of sumptuous deserts and dancing.

Consistent with its mission to make a difference in the lives of the families, RESULTS is honoring business, faith-based and community “difference makers” who impact lives in our community. This year’s honorees include: • Tyrone M. Davenport, chief operating officer, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History • Dr. Bertram L. Marks, attorney and pastor, First Community Baptist Church • Jerry Norcia, president and COO, DTE Electric and Gas Storage and Pipelines • Juliette Thorpe Okotie-Eboh, Sr. vice president, Public Affairs, MGM Grand Detroit • Rod Rickman, CEO, Rickman Enterprise Group The organization, which has served thousands of

as a last chance preventive measure to avoid entering the juvenile court system. The organization is also a Michigan Department of Education preferred provider.

Thomas focuses on urban areas and at-risk students. His life’s work is to raise the standard of excellence to change the lives of the families and communities.

The 2014 Honorees students, has an excellent track record of change.

“At RESULTS, we welcome the challenge of dealing with students that other groups run from,” said Charles Thomas, founder and CEO. “Our mission is to break young people of bad habits and negative mentalities by teaching them to live for the life they want to have, not the current path that they are on.”

Using trained certified professionals as well as “peer mentors” at no to low-cost to families, RESULTS provides a comprehensive package of behavioral intervention services, including tutoring, mentoring, monitoring and educational services. In partnership with the court system, young people are sent to RESULTS

WC3 and UACO provide Passport to Africa in Black History Month series

By Roz Edward

On Saturday, Feb. 21 Wayne Community College District held its much anticipated 13th Annual Passport to Africa event to celebrate Black History Month in a way no other institution does. In cooperation with the United African Community Organization, the historic event provided tours, presentations and exhibitions relating the Black experience from the Underground Railroad to Motown, and highlighting numerous historic sites and events along the journey.

“I have lived in Detroit all of my adult life and I am amazed at the number of Black history landmarks that are here, and I have been missing or taking for granted every day. I didn’t know that there was a representation of a Black woman, who may have been Sojourner Truth on the Soldiers and Sailors monument downtown. The Passport to Africa event has been fascinating,” said Saja Barnes, a Harper Hospital employee returning from the Journey to Midnight bus tour. Other stops on the popular tour included the sites of the Finney Barn and the homes of William Lambert, aka “the conductor” of the Underground Railroad, George DeBaptiste, a wealthy Black businessman and an abolitionist, and William Webb, another successful Black businessman and ardent abolitionist.

Other guided bus tours included in the WC3/ UACO Passport to Africa were: The Historic Museum tours of the Motown Museum, the Detroit Historic Museum and the Charles Wright Museum of African American history.

But for those who preferred an indoor Black History Month celebration, members of the Henrietta Lacks family were available to lecture and dis-

cuss this remarkable woman’s story as told in the well-received book, “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks.” Her story is a spellbinding account of how the cultivation of cells helped scientists make some of the most important advances in modern medical history, but they were taken without her knowledge and without her permission.

And while most Detroiters may never travel across the globe to Africa, many Passport participants were delighted and surprised by the exciting representations of African culture, complete with awe-inspiring dance and music performances and the opportunity to get up-close- and personal with the Diaspora experience – all at no cost.

“The Passport to Africa program is what Black History Month should be. Not just an accounting of a timeline of Black achievement or a recounting of Black sacrifice. It should be a living exploration of how we can continue to contribute to our communities and the country,” said Valerie Edward, a Black female mechanical engineer.

The Passport to Africa series is one of the Wayne Community College District’s many initiatives to provide students and metro Detroiters with an educational experience that is both entertaining and engaging. Under the skillful leadership of Chancellor Dr. Curtis L. Ivery, WCCCD continues to expand its reach by providing exciting opportunities outside of the classroom.

Learning truly does lead to a better life. Expanding our knowledge of the world around us is one of the best steps we can take toward educational enrichment. Thanks to institutions like WCCCD, you don’t have to travel too far to do so. The opportunity is right in your backyard.

He has a passion to see young people excel, especially those who many label troubled. Overwhelmed by the need for positive male role models in his community and neighborhood schools, Thomas decided that it was his responsibility to reach out to a group that is usually ignored. Once a troubled youth himself, he is keenly aware that behavioral issues, ethics, self-esteem and self-respect issues are at the core of why children often do not succeed.

“Many young people have the will, desire and need to improve their behavior. They just don’t have the tools,” said Thomas. “At RESULTS Mentoring, we create opportunities that allow young people to increase their chances at a life filled with opportunity, advancement and success.”

RESULTS Mentoring is a licensed and insured 501c3 non-profit organization. To learn more, visit resultsmentoring.org or call 877-378-5873. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities to the Partnership Gala are still available.

Moms Club in metro Detroit to host first annual workshop Moms Club will host their first annual workshop on March 15 from 3 to 5 pm at the Garden Theater located in Midtown. The workshop topic: “Teaching our children about self-esteem, self-image and peer pressure,” will be conducted by licensed therapist, adjunct professor and performing arts coach Loretta Morman, and author, international speaker, college professor, mentor, political advisor, teacher and radio and TV correspondent on CBS/CW 50, Dr. Eddie Connor Jr. “Today’s alarming data in youth suicide is not only scary but detrimental to our youth. Society and media make it very difficult for children to understand who they are. It is our job as parents to be our children’s first source of reinforcement,” said Moms Club founder Jessica Byrd. “We must really cultivate our children’s feelings. It takes more than the schools, it starts at their toddler years.”

Dr. Eddie Connor Jr. will speak to mothers with sons

about what it means to be an African-American male in today’s forever changing society. Morman will work closely with mothers with daughters regarding social comparison and self-image.

This is a free workshop, but you must RSVP to attend.

They should be submitted to mrsjessicamarieb@gmail. com Moms Club LLC is an organization created to implement an uplifting support network for young mothers.

Moms Club equips mothers with the tools and necessities to become better parents, which promotes a better society.

Moms Club monthly gatherings include playdates to encourage social skills and exposure; workshops to help mothers with issues in today’s society; children free dates to engage mothers by surrounding themselves with a positive and encouraging network; and live events to promote motherhood and engage today’s mothers.

Page B-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Feb. 25 - Mar. 3, 2015

March 27, 2015 Mini-conference 1 PM Reception 3 PM Program 4 PM

MGM Grand Casino and Hotel 1777 Third St. • Detroit, MI 48226

Tickets $65

Table of Ten $700

HONOREES Judge Vonda Evans

Linda Joyce Alexander

Wayne County Third Circuit Court

Chief Clinical Officer Total Health Care

Judge Wanda Evans

Patricia Lynne Alexander

Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer Comerica Bank

Genelle M. Allen

Assistant County Executive Wayne County

Tonya Allen

36th District Court of Michigan

Sherrie Farrell

Office Managing Member, Dykema Gossett PLLC

Renée Fluker

Founder & President, Midnight Golf

The Honorable Sherry Gay-Dagnogo

President and Chief Executive Officer Skillman Foundation

State Representative, Michigan Legislature

Earlene Baggett-Hayes

First Black Miss USA/Fitness & Wellness Professional Royal Physique Fitness

Attorney/Arbitrator/Mediator/Trainer The Law & Mediation Center, PLLC

Deputy Chief U. Renee’ Hall

Chief Executive Officer Elan Anti-Aging & Longevity

President Youth Development Commission

SVP of Human Resources & Organizational Development Presbyterian Villages of Michigan

President Insurance Services of Michigan

Gwendolyn A. de Jongh

Patricia Stewart

The Honorable Sylvia Jordan

Executive Director, General Retirement System Police & Fire Retirement System, City of Detroit

VP, Marketing and Development Matrix Human Services Council President City of Southfield

Deidre Lambert-Bounds Chief Operating Officer Ignite Social Media

Lyn E. Lewis, Ph.D

Chief Executive Officer and President Lyn Lewis & Associates, Inc.

Lisa Lunsford

Chief Executive Officer and Founder Global Strategic Supply Solutions (GS3)

Shirley Mann Gray

Administrative Director Children’s Hospital of Michigan

LaNesha DeBardelaben Dr. Shawny DeBerry

Donna Stallings

Chairman – Board of Trustees Motown Historical Museum

Chief Human Resources & Labor Relations Officer Detroit Public Schools Vice President of Assessment & Community Engagement Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

Director of Community Development & Governmental Affairs Walker-Miller Energy Services

LaTrice V. Jordan

Nadine Cook

Michelle Crockett

Dr. Sabrina Jackson

President and Founder Brooke Personal Development Center & Parent Network

Director IT & Project Management Office Henry Ford Health Systems

Principal and Director of Professional Development Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone, P.L.C.

Ayanna Smith

Chief Financial Officer Detroit Jazz Festival

Principal Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School – DPS

Carrie J. Clark

Community Relations Consultant St. John Providence Health

Dr. Cynthia Shelby-Lane

Dr. Deborah K. Jenkins

Vice President Pontiac School District Family Medicine Alsan Medical Clinic

Charisse Ross

LaDonna Holley

Founder & Chief Executive Officer Sabrina Jackson Enterprises

Dr. Maria L. Bobo

Dr. Christina Clark

Dr. Peggy Richardson

Donna Givens

Frances D. Blanks

Brenda Joyce Carter

Janet Patterson

President & Chief Executive Officer Pathways to Self Determination

Director of Human Resources and Operations Detroit Area Agency on Aging

Deputy Chief, Detroit Police Department

Nursing Practice Director Detroit Medical Center Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan

Chief Legal Counsel Transactional & Economic Development, City of Detroit

Medical Director Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries

Denise Boone Bennett

Vice President Consumer Market Manager, Bank of America

Pamela Parrish

Carol Gist

Edna Bell

Chief Executive Officer and President Travelers Aid Society of Metropolitan Detroit

Dr. Cheryl C. Munday

Associate Professor/Director of Psychology Clinic University of Detroit-Mercy

Dr. Carmen McIntyre

Chief Medical Officer Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority

Dannis Mitchell

Deputy Chief Operating Officer Wayne County Department of Public Service

Diversity Manager Barton Malow

Mawine Diggs

Jessica Care Moore

Campus President/ Chief Academic Officer Wayne County Community College District – Eastern Campus

Robin R. Terry

Cynthia Thomas Vickie Thomas City Beat Reporter CBS Radio/WWJ 950

Camille Walker Banks

Executive Director Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses/ Wayne State University Office of Economic Development

Felicia Wasson

Director of Public Affairs & Communications The Coca-Cola Company

Ayanna C. Weber

Director of Human Resources Operations Detroit Medical Center

Deneen Whitaker

Assistant Director UAW-Ford Benefits Department

Jacqueline Wilson

First Lady and Director of The HIGH Program Wayne State University

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SECTION C

Feb. 25 - March 3, 2015

michiganchronicle.com

Internationally recognized urban planner Maurice Cox to guide city’s future land use Mayor Mike Duggan has announced the appointment Maurice Cox as Detroit’s new planning director.

Duggan has charged Cox with focusing his energies on developing strategies to strengthen existing neighborhoods and reuse land in largely vacant areas of the city.

Cox was born and educated in New York City. He received his bachelor’s degree in architecture from the Cooper Union School of Architecture and was awarded the Loeb Fellowship at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. Early in his career, he taught for Syracuse University’s Architecture Program in Florence, Italy, while practicing architecture in Florence for 10 years. He also holds an honorary degree from the University of Detroit – Mercy.

He has received national acclaim as a leader in community design and is widely respected for his ability to incorporate active citizen participation into the urban design and planning process.

He has a reputation for developing bold, yet achievable, plans that become tools for civic discourse and empowerment, embraced by diverse sectors of the community. His approach led Fast Company business magazine to name him one of America’s “20 Masters of Design” for his practice of “democratic design.”

Cox served as the design director of the National Endowment for the Arts in Washington, and in that capacity, led the selection of NEA design grants and leadership programs such as the Mayor’s Institute on City Design, which prepares mayors to be the chief urban designers of their cities.

He comes to Detroit from his most recent dual position of director of the Tulane City Center, a community-based design resource center for New Orleans, and associate dean for Community Engagement at the Tulane University School of Architecture, where he facil-

The mayor has expressed an interest in exploring new uses for large tracts of vacant city land, including green infrastructure to reduce storm water run-off and appropriate urban agriculture.

He also has talked about creating more densely populated and walkable urban neighborhoods throughout the city that are sustainable unto themselves with a diversity of residents and small businesses.

Maurice Cox

Mike Duggan

itates a wide range of partnerships between Tulane University, the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority and the City of New Orleans.

new, two-mile, federally funded parkway entrance into the city.

Previously, Cox taught at the University of Virginia, where his appreciation of the civic process led to his public service as city council member and then mayor of Charlottesville, Virginia, from 1996 to 2004.

During Cox’s mayoral term (20022004) the city was ranked as the “#1 Best Place to Live in the USA & Canada”

by Frommer’s Cities Ranked and Rated.

Under his leadership, Charlottesville completed several urban design initiatives, including the passage of an award-winning zoning ordina nce in support of mixed-use, pedestrian-oriented development; new infill residential neighborhoods and mixed-income, higher-density housing; and the design of a

As required under the City Charter, Mayor Duggan has submitted Cox’s name to City Council for its consideration.

Focus on Neighborhoods Duggan praised Cox, with his international perspective and track record of community involvement, as a perfect fit for the position of planning director.

“We continue to build an administration that represents a mix of the best talent from Detroit and around the country,” Duggan said. “Adding a planning director the caliber of Maurice Cox will strengthen our efforts to improve all of Detroit’s neighborhoods.”

With new businesses and residential developments already going strong downtown and in Midtown, Mayor

Cox thanked Mayor Duggan for this opportunity and said he hopes to build from the uniqueness of Detroit while bringing new ideas that represent the best of what he’s seen and done elsewhere.

“Detroit has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reimagine the American city, transforming an abundance of land into a valuable community asset. We can take advantage of Detroit’s many historic neighborhoods to create new urban housing anchored by revitalized commercial corridors, parks and greenways, all working together to enhance the quality of life in this city for everyone,” Cox said.

“Detroit is well positioned to be the place where urban innovation and economic opportunity intersect, creating a new kind of sustainable city, one that is equitable, just and simply more beautiful.”

Pending approval from City Council, Cox will begin immediately on a parttime basis until May, when he completes his last semester at Tulane.

Live.Work.Detroit. offers one-day immersion in Detroit for college students, recent grads The Michigan Economic Development Corporation invites college students and recent graduates from around Michigan and beyond to Live.Work.

Detroit., a career event taking place Friday, Feb. 27, from 2 to 8 p.m. at the Majestic Theater in Detroit.

“Detroit is buzzing with new energy that is creating a dynamic, vibrant place to showcase to young adults with entrepreneurial spirit,” said Amy Cell, senior vice president for talent enhancement at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “Detroit is making global headlines for its amazing transformation by attract-

ing new businesses, visitors and young professionals, and we encourage college students to take a close look at all the city has to offer.”

places to live.

Registration is required and the cost is $15. The registration fee covers all activities including transportation, dinner and the tour of the city. Register at http://www. eventbrite.com/e/liveworkdetroit-february-27-2015-tickets-14949451211.

Live.Work.Detroit. is an MEDC initiative designed to connect Michigan’s college graduates to Detroit job opportunities and promote the city as a preferred post-graduation talent destination. Since 2011, more than 4,000 college students from universities and colleges across Michigan and surrounding states have participated in Live.Work.Detroit events.

The Feb. 27 event is being hosted by Detroit Experience Factory and sponsored by MEDC. Participating students will have the opportunity to network with a wide range of

Detroit employers, including General Motors, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Quicken Loans and Challenge Detroit, among others. The event will include keynote speaker Jason Hall,

cofounder of Detroit Bike City, a panel discussion with some of Detroit’s young leaders, networking and a tour of some of the exciting small businesses, restaurants, museums and

“Bottom line: When people ask me, ‘Why Detroit?’ the answer is because Detroit is big enough to matter in the world but small enough where you can matter in it,” said Jeanette Pierce, executive director at Detroit Experience Factory and a Detroit native.

For questions regarding Live.Work.Detroit., contact Jeanette Pierce at 313.962.4590 or jeanette@weknowdetroit.org.

business

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Feb. 25 - March 3, 2015

Page C-2

Detroit Branch NAACP hosts Kick-Off and Passing of the Gavel for 60th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner The Detroit Branch NAACP held its Kick-Off and Passing of the Gavel ceremony to officially launch the 60th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner on Thursday, February 12, at the Roostertail. During the ceremony the 2014 Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner chairs passed the gavel to the incoming 2015 chairs. Mayor Mike Duggan also purchased the first ceremonial ticket. The theme for the 60th Annual Fight For Free-

dom Fund Dinner was announced as well. This year’s theme is “Celebrating Freedom: Measured by Practice, Treasured by Sacrifice.” The 60th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner will be held on Sunday, May 3, 2015 at Cobo Conference Center. For tickets and sponsorship information please contact the Detroit Branch NAACP at (313) 871-2087.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan purchases the ceremonial first ticket for the 60th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner. Pictured from left: Donnell R. White, executive director, Detroit Branch NAACP; Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony, president, Detroit Branch NAACP and Mayor Duggan.

59th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner General Co-Chair Hiram E. Jackson, CEO, Real Times Media and publisher, Michigan Chronicle; 59th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner General Co-Chair Donna Stallings, activist and entrepreneur; 59th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner General Chair Michael T. Ritchie, president, Comerica Bank - Michigan; 59th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner Senior Corporate Chair Gary Torgow, chairman, Talmer Bancorp, Inc.; Detroit Branch NAACP President Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony; Mayor Mike Duggan; 60th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner Senior Corporate Chair Mary T. Barra, CEO, General Motors Company, represented by Vivan Pickard, president, General Motors Foundation; and Eric Peterson, U.S. vice president, Diversity Dealer Relations, General Motors Company; 60th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner General Chair Dr. William Pickard, CEO, Global Automotive Alliance, LLC; 60th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner General Co-Chair Charles Nolen, president, Michigan Black Bar Owners Association; and Detroit Branch NAACP Executive Director Donnell R. White.

Vivan Pickard, president, General Motors Foundation, and Eric Peterson (right), U.S. vice president, Diversity Dealer Relations, General Motors Company, present a $250,000 check to the Detroit Branch NAACP.

Detroit Branch NAACP 59th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner General Co-Chair Hiram E. Jackson, CEO, Real Times Media and publisher, Michigan Chronicle, is presented a plaque.

Detroit Branch NAACP 59th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner Senior Corporate Chair Gary Torgow, chairman, Talmer Bancorp, Inc., is presented a plaque.

Detroit Branch NAACP 59th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner General Chair Michael T. Ritchie (center), president, Comerica Bank-Michigan, is presented with a plaque.

Detroit Branch NAACP 59th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner General CoChair Donna Stallings, activist and entrepreneur, is presented a plaque.

60th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner General Chair Charles Nolen (center), president, Michigan Black Bar Owners Association, presents a check for $25,000 to the Detroit Branch NAACP.

60th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner General Chair Dr. William Pickard presents a check for $100,000. From left: Donnell R. White, executive director, Detroit Branch NAACP; Don Allen, senior vice president, Corporate Relations, Global Automotive Alliance; Bregitte Baddock, materials manager, Vitec/Global Automotive Alliance; Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony, president, Detroit Branch NAACP; Terri Moon, executive vice president, Vitec; Dr. William Pickard, CEO, Global Automotive Alliance, LLC; and Sylvester Hester, vice chairman and chief operations officer, Global Automotive Alliance, LLC.

A history we can all celebrate.

The Detroit Tigers are proud to honor the legacy of African Americans in baseball.

13th Annual Negro Leagues Weekend Celebration April 24 - 26 • Detroit Tigers vs. Cleveland Indians

business

By Paul Bridgewater

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

The driving dilemma

Offer specific examples.

Try not to generalize. Say something like, “Daddy, you just can’t see well enough to drive anymore.”

Cite examples such as the time he hit the mailbox or ran into the ditch beside the driveway.

Insisting a loved one discontinue driving is a difficult subject to broach. Suggesting to anyone that it’s no longer safe to drive may seem like stripping them of transportation, dignity and independence. However, he or she may be relieved that someone stepped in to help make this decision.

I had to face this issue with my father. Sometime around 1975, he ran through an intersection in my small hometown, Saginaw, Mich., and caused a multi-vehicle accident because the other drivers crashed trying to avoid him. He went about his business, oblivious to what happened. But witnesses described his car, and told police it was Mr. Bridgewater who lived on 24th Street. So shortly afterward, the police showed up to cite him.

My mother was so angry; she called me insisting that I come get my father’s car to stop him from driving.

This was so hard for me because my father and I were close.

He had been orphaned and on his own since age 12 and his car represented a sense of pride. After I took his car, he didn’t speak to me for three months. Each time I visited, he left the house or went into another room and demanded I return the car. It was troublesome; I was tormented. But my mother had put her foot down about it, and he no longer had the cognitive ability to drive. Finally, I told him I sold the car, and my brothers and I transported my parents wherever they needed to go. Soon, they enjoyed being chauffeured around town.

If I had to do it all again, though, I would have handled the situation

Feb. 25 - Mar.3, 2015

Page C-3

Special occasion

Find strength in numbers. If more than one relative or close friend has noticed, it will be less likely to be considered nagging. A loved one also may be more likely to listen to an impartial party such as a doctor or driving specialist.

Paul Bridgewater differently. I would have scheduled a family meeting, and I would have ensured he understood our concerns and perceived the potential safety hazard. I would have shared that I empathized with him.

As we age, our driving abilities tend to change. We may not see or hear as well. Our reflexes may be slower. Most of us will be able to continue driving far into our senior years, but we need to be aware when warning signs dictate it no longer is safe to drive.

If you ever are faced with a situation similar to mine, I suggest you handle it with more sensitivity than I did. I like the suggestions HelpGuide.org offers to talk to a loved one about driving concerns: Be respectful. Remember, for many seniors driving is an integral part of their independence. Think about how exciting it was to get your own driver’s license and what it represented. However, don’t be intimidated or back down if you truly are concerned.

Help find alternatives. Find shuttle services to the doctor, or a transportation service to go to the mall.

Better yet, commit to times when you can do the driving.

Understand the difficult transition. Giving up driving may cause a profound sense of loss for your loved one. Don’t ignore this and try to help them transition slowly, if possible. For example, they may agree to stop driving at night or on the freeways, or by using a shuttle service to appointments.

Nonprofit organizations that serve seniors may accept donations or charge a small fee for rides, including the Detroit Area Agency on Aging (DAAA) and affiliates around the country. DAAA will help coordinate transportation through the Detroit Department of Transportation and other organizations. To arrange a ride, call (313) 446-4444 Ext. 5370.

Paul Bridgewater, President and CEO, Detroit Area Agency on Aging (DAAA), hosts “The Senior Solution” on WCHB Newstalk 1200AM, Saturdays at 10 a.m. DAAA is located at 1333 Brewery Park Blvd., Suite 200, Detroit, MI 48207; (313) 446-4444; www.daaa1a.com.

Barbara Johnson-Jones recently retired from Cadillac Products Automotive Company after 30 years of service with the auto supplier. She is also the first African-American to reach the 30-year mark and is grateful for her time there. With her is Michael Williams, company president.

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EAA’s chancellor announces community driven Charter Review Panel

The Education Achievement Authority of Michigan’s (EAA) Chancellor Veronica Conforme announced today the formation of a 11-member Charter Review Panel made up of parents, teachers, community leaders, EAA staff members and educators. The Charter Review Panel is tasked with reviewing responses to the EAA’s charter school request for proposals, interviewing charter applicants and providing feedback directly to Chancellor Conforme. Interviews will take place next week.

School Authorizers, a nationally recognized organization committed to advancing charter school excellence and accountability. The rubric measures the applicant’s academic plan, past successes and their proposed school model.

“It is vital that the entire EAA community participate in the process of selecting who will educate our students,” Chancellor Conforme said. “We need to continuously evaluate how our schools are performing to ensure that our students receive the high-quality education they deserve. My top priority is accelerating the pace of student achievement and this is one step in my broader plan to do just that.”

● • Joyce Hayes Giles, Chairwoman EAA Board of Directors

The Charter Review Panel will conduct their evaluations using a rubric developed for the EAA by the National Association of Charter

The diverse group of panel members were selected to provide a thorough and community-driven review of the potential charter operators to ensure that the EAA community has a strong voice in the decision making process. Charter Review Panel members include:

● • Sharlonda M. Buckman, Executive Director of the Detroit Parent Network ● • Peggy Gordon, Parent of EAA students ● • Larvern Bey, Parent of EAA student ● • Dr. Malverne Winborne, Director of the Eastern Michigan University Charter Schools Office ● • Tanya Heidelberg-Yopp, CEO of Linked Learning Detroit

● • Lynette Simmons, Vice President of Mission Resources Detroit YMCA ● • Pamela Chapman, Principal of Brenda Scott Academy ● • Michael Gaal, Chief Operating Officer at EAA ● • Sean Deiters, Teacher at Nolan Elementary-Middle School ● • Alice Thompson, CEO Black Family Development “I am grateful for our panel members’ willingness to devote their time to this extremely important process, and I look forward to receiving their feedback,” Chancellor Conforme added.

After the Charter Review Panel reviews each application and conducts their interviews, the EAA will make a decision on which charter operators to authorize. The final step in the process is matching authorized charter operators with schools, should that be necessary. At this time, the EAA is not planning to open any additional schools.

Buick Achievers Scholarship application period closing Friday, Feb. 27

The Buick Achievers Scholarship Program, funded by the General Motors Foundation, will accept applications for 2015 scholarships from Monday, Jan. 5, through 5 p.m. EST on Friday, Feb. 27.

This is the fifth year Buick Achievers scholarships will be awarded to students who excel in the classroom and give back to their communities. Special consideration is given to students who are female, minorities, first-generation college students, military veterans and military dependents.

To be eligible for the program, high school seniors or current undergraduate students must be seeking a college degree in science, technology, engineering, math (STEM), or other eligible fields re-

lated to the automotive industry.

“Our country is in need of STEM grads, as the focus on innovation and technology continues to sharpen,” said GM Foundation President Vivian Pickard. “Through the Buick Achievers Scholarship program, we are helping shape the next generation of leaders and innovators for the automotive industry and other sectors that are so important to the future of our country.”

For Buick Achiever, Kettering University alumnus and GM employee Frisco Pullom, this scholarship provided the freedom to focus on his education.

“My first semester after receiving scholarship funds, I was able to remove work and fundraising from my schedule, and I made the

dean’s list for the first time in my academic career,” said Pullom. “After graduation, I was able to secure a position with General Motors as a value chain engineer.”

“It feels good to be able to contribute to a company that is committed to helping students prepare for their careers,” he said.

Since its inception in 2011, the Buick Achievers Scholarship Program has awarded more than $27 million in scholarships to 3,400 students. This year, the program will award 50 scholarships of up to $25,000 per year, renewable for up to four years or five years for qualified engineering programs.

Students from the United States and Puerto Rico are eligible.

Nielsen introduces the new Black Power Today, the phrase Black Power takes on a new meaning. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the Black Power Movement inspired racial pride and self-esteem amongst African-Americans and encouraged all Americans to acknowledge and embrace Black culture and heritage.

Now Black Power also refers to the considerable economic influence of African-Americans.

According to recent Nielsen reports, the buying power of African-Americans is $1.1 trillion and expected to grow to $1.3 trillion by 2017. That is significant economic influence wielded by 44 million Blacks in the U.S. In addition, African-Americans are conscious of how they spend their time and money, thus leveraging this purchasing power to ensure their economic impact is recognized and valued (See Nielsen’s videos here and here).

The influence of Black Power increases exponentially when the

overall impact that Blacks have on American popular culture is considered. A Nielsen report highlights that 73% of Whites and 67% of Hispanics believe that Blacks influence mainstream culture. This is evidenced by the success of recent television shows that feature Black actors and culturally relevant story lines.

African-Americans watch nearly 200 hours of television per month, roughly 60 more hours than the total audience. The successful programming formula of inclusivity is an effective strategy for television producers, but it also is incredibly effective for reaching multiple audiences and testifies to the power of diversity.

In addition, music by African-American artists consistently populates Billboard’s Top 20 albums chart. Youth is a key driver for specific music genres, and more than half of the Black population – 53 percent – is under the

age of 35 (compared to 47 percent of total population). However, African-American youth aren’t the sole procurers of Black music. Hip-hop, in particular, has become an international, multibillion-dollar business reflective of the strong sway Black culture has on the music industry and its trends, thus providing additional proof of the far-reaching impact of today’s Black Power.

Over the years, jazz, blues and R&B have had similar universal appeal.

“The Black Power Movement in the ’60s and ’70s led to significant and historical changes. That same type of conscious impact is achievable utilizing today’s platforms and tools,” says says Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Nielsen’s senior vice president, strategic community alliance and consumer engagement.

For more information please contact me at vanessa.abron@nielsen.com or 312-480-9050.

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Page C-4 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Feb. 25 - March 3, 2015

10th Anniversary FORUM ONE

David Blaszkiewicz President & CEO, Invest Detroit

David Blaszkiewicz

David Blaszkiewicz serves as President and Ch Executive Officer of Invest Detroit, an organizati driving catalytic change through financing f commercial businesses and real estate projects. He responsible for Invest Detroit’s development a implementation of collaborative economic grow strategies designed for the creation of density and job In addition, Mr. Blaszkiewicz leads the organization efforts to strengthen relationships with the publ Rev. Wendell private andAnthony philanthropic Rodrick sectors Millerto promote econom renewal and sustainability.

The New Detroit?

Mr. Blaszkiewicz manages the activities of Invest Detroit’s programs represent over $200 millionon in Detroit’s funds andProgress tax creditand allocations. coordinates a number “A Discussion How WeHe Ensure All audiences to support and accelerate residential, commercial, retail, entertainm Detroiters Have Access to Economic Opportunities” and place-making activity in Detroit’s Greater Downtown and targe neighborhoods.

Since 2001, the organization has transitioned to facilit Thursday, March 19, 2015 • 7:30 a.m. additional funding tools with assets that have leveraged over $1 billion in to Detroit Athletic Club investment, primarily in Detroit.

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Reflections

By Steve Holsey

‘Role models’

Lately there has been talk, and even some editorials, about Beyoncé sometimes being too “sexual” in song content and performance, and therefore being a bad “role model” for girls and young women.

True, celebrities are influential because we live in societies — it’s a worldwide thing — that exalt “stars” to often absurd levels. But entertainers are there to do just that — provide entertainment. It is not their duty to be anybody’s “role model.”

Admiring a celebrity and enjoying what they have to offer is one thing — and in some cases they also provide inspiration — but looking to them for anything beyond that makes no sense. “Star worshipping” is a scary thing.

Beyoncé

If the lovely, talented, hard-working Beyoncé wants to sometimes wear sexy outfits and occasionally sing overtly sexual songs like “Drunk in Love,” that’s her business. And if someone insists on making her a “role model,” that’s their problem.

The willingness and courage to think for one’s self is a huge plus, for anyone…of any age.

Stevie Wonder

A WONDERful tribute

IT IS interesting how an actor or actress can have been around for quite some time, yet they are recognized as “new.” Jussie Smollett (now there’s a name for you!), the most popular and most talked about “new” star on “Empire,” has actually been acting on television and in movies for more than two decades, starting out when he was eight years old in a made-for-television movie.

By Steve Holsey Now this is the way to do it! The recent two-hour TV special “Stevie Wonder: Songs in the Key of Life — An All-Star Grammy Salute” was sensational. Well produced, perfectly paced, a special that raised the bar. One for the ages.

Jussie Smollett

Taraji P. Henson as Cookie.

Jill Scott, Janelle Monae and India.Arie.

Today, Smollett, 32 and looking much younger, is courageously cast as the talented and proud-to-be-gay Jamal Lyon, son of accepting mother Cookie Lyon (Taraji P. Henson) and non-accepting father Lucious Lyon (Terrence Howard).

If you’ve seen the hit TV show, you know how “colorful,” hard-edged and entertaining Cookie Lyon is. Henson plays the part with maximum, sometimes over-the-top effectiveness, and she was flattered by how Smollett feels about her work.

“This is Taraji’s role,” he said. “There’s nobody in the world that could play Cookie the way the great Taraji P. Henson plays her. There is a fearlessness about her that is so incredible to watch and be part of.”

Smollett also noted that one of the highlights of his life was being at a party and having Smokey Robinson, L.A. Reid and Berry Gordy come over to him, recognizing him from the show.

Beyoncé

One music journalist speculated that the Stevie Wonder salute “may have been better than the Grammys.” May have been? If a person didn’t know better, they would think he was kidding. The

John Legend

See STEVIE WONDER Page D-2

DICK CLARK was a man I always admired, and the role he played in the promotion of rock ’n’ roll and rhythm ’n’ blues could hardly be overstated. Even Don Cornelius acknowledged that had there been no “American Bandstand,” there would be no “Soul Train.” (Clark didn’t create Dick Clark “American Bandstand” but he took over as host early on.)

When the Dick Clark Caravan of Stars toured the nation on buses from 1959 to the mid-1960s, Clark rode on the bus with the artists although he didn’t have to. Even more importantly, often in the South, Blacks were not allowed to stay at certain hotels and motels.

Clark’s policy was, if the Black artists couldn’t stay there, then no one would.

Lady Gaga

As for “American Bandstand” being “White” in the 1950s and early 1960s, it was a sign of the times. Blacks were not banned, they just seldom showed up because “American Bandstand” was considered “a White show,” despite playing a lot of Black records and having many Black guest performers.

“Somewhere along the line we began to work in Black kids, Brown and Yellow, and pretty soon it was a melting pot,” said Clark.

Dick Clark’s only misstep was introducing a short-lived Black-oriented dance show (“Soul Unlimited”) to compete with and drain viewers from “Soul Train.”

PHARRELL ­WILLIAMS, Pharrell Williams who is 41 and looks little more than 21, has en-

See Reflections Page D-2

Of course, no one is more deserving than Stevie Wonder. He is beyond legendary; he is an icon, one whose music is timeless and intergenerational with multiracial appeal. How many artists have recorded — and writ­ ten — songs that can be sung along to by everyone from seniors to teenagers?

The grand finale.

Pharrell Williams and Ryan Tedder.

entertainment

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Feb. 25 - March 3, 2015 Page D-2

A Black-owned Detroit business in the 1950s.

Filmmaker presents roundtable discussion on Black businesses

On Saturday, Feb. 28, Anthony Brogdon, noted Detroit filmmaker, will present “Black Business Pioneers, The Real Deal,” a roundtable discussion, at the Michigan State Detroit Center, 3408 Woodward Ave., from 12 to 3 pm.

The event is an opportunity for people who lived during the Black Bottom era to talk about what it was like and their personal experiences. Also, the record will be set straight on what caused Black Bottom’s demise.

history. In addition, Brogdon will make a brief presentation introducing his upcoming film, “Business in the Black: What They Did to a Good Thing.”

Anthony Brogdon On the panel will be historians and others interested in learning more about this part of Detroit

The program will start with a 15-minute video presentation filmed in 1995 of the original panel discussion two decades ago that featured J. Carlton Mays, Sunnie Wilson, Sidney Barthwell, Ed Davis and Ed Brazelton. It took place at Lewis Business College.

For more information, call 313.704.5612.

Babyface and Ariana Grande.

Stevie Wonder

show, which was a ratings bonanza for CBS, will surely end up being acknowledged as one of the foremost musical programs of the year, commercially and artistically.

“STEVIE WONDER: Songs in the Key of Life — An All-Star Grammy Salute” started off with a bang, with Beyoncé, the queen of big, splashy productions, delivering a revamped version of Wonder’s first superhit, “Fingertips.”

After that, it was one exciting performance after another, with no lags. Space limitations make it impossible to recognize them all, but some moments were extra special.

No one would have expected to see Jill Scott, newcomer Janelle Monae and India.Arie performing as a trio, but whoever thought of his partnering is to be commended. The talented ladies were electric doing “As.” They were introduced by Mary Wilson of the original Supremes. She looked gorgeous, surely an inspiration to women “of a certain age.”

Lady Gaga, also beautiful, put a huge amount of fire and energy into Wonder’s “I Wish.” She was even more excited than the audience, and at times it seemed she was going to propel herself right off that piano bench.

ONE OF the most touching moments came when famed classical singer Andrea Bocelli offered a fine rendition of “I Just Called to Say I Love You.” This was, of course, way outside of his realm, but that made it even more special.

It was also a treat to see and hear (she can sing!) Stevie Wonder’s daughter, Aisha Morris, duetting with Ne-Yo on “Isn’t She Lovely.” Morris was the inspiration

Reflections

tered into a business arrangement with Putnam Books for four picture books, the first of which will be inspired by Pharrell’s megahit song “Happy.” Sept.

22 is the publication date.

Geraldo Rivera raised eyebrows when he commented, “Hip-hop has done more damage to Black and Brown people than racism in the last 10 years.” He feels it contributes heavily to them ending up outside of the mainstream and ill-prepared for the workforce.

From page D-1 for that joyous song.

Who could not admire Tony Bennett? At the age of 88 he is still doing his thing, the ultimate class act. He has said that when he was just starting out so many years ago, Frank Sinatra told him that if you want to last indefinitely, you have to sing quality songs and avoid fads.

C L A S S I C A L

S E R I E S

C O N C E R T

What can you say about Annie Lennox? This unique artist is always outstanding. She recently lit the Grammys up with “I Put a Spell on You.” This time she sang “My Cherie Amour.”

JOHN LEGEND is another one with a very special voice. He sounds like no one else and has carved out a niche for himself and will surely be here for the long haul. His rendering of Wonder’s “I Believe (When I Fall in Love it Will be Forever)” was a winner.

Pharrell Williams and Ryan Tedder were another unexpected collaboration.

They gave their all to “Don’t You Worry ’Bout a Thing” and worked well together.

And then there was Babyface and Ariana Grande with a restructured version of “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours.”

You can always count on Jennifer Hudson to deliver the goods with power and passion, and she did just that with “All in Love is Fair.”

FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2015 AT 10:45 A.M. SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 2015 AT 8 P.M.

And then there was Stevie Wonder himself. Obviously deeply appreciative of being honored in such a monumental way, he started out with the instrumental “Contusion” and then in dizzying succession sang “Sir Duke,” “You Are the Sunshine of My Life,” “Ribbon in the Sky,” “Overjoyed” and “Superstition.”

Stevie Wonder is a gift from the Creator.

THOMAS WILKINS, conductor • GREGORY WALKER, violin CHARLOTTE BLAKE ALSTON, narrator BRAZEAL DENNARD CHORALE, chorus

From page D-1 MEMORIES: “You’re Number One (In My Book)” (Gladys Knight & the Pips), “Just One Look” (Doris Troy), “Something Just Ain’t Right” (Keith Sweat), “Lovin’ You” (Minnie Riperton), “Jam Tonight” (Freddie Jackson), “The Closer I Get to You” (Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway), “Woman to Woman” (Shirley Brown), “You Should be Dancing” (the Bee Gees), “The Last Time I Made Love” (Joyce Kennedy and Jeffrey Osborne), “Get Off” (Foxy).

For 36 years, the Classical Roots concert has celebrated African-American contributions to classical music. This year, beloved former DSO resident conductor Thomas Wilkins returns to the podium to lead the DSO in an exciting program featuring an excerpt from Ellington’s Black, Brown and Beige Suite, Adolphus Hailstork’s Symphony No. 1 and Pulitzer Prize winner George Walker’s Violin Concerto. The concert will also feature the Brazeal Dennard Chorale and narrator Charlotte Blake.

Will Smith, 46, had said he would not be making any additional rap albums because of the age/credibility thing, but after having a great time “fun rapping” with Jimmy Fallon on “The Tonight Show,” he says he just might make one more.

BLESSINGS to everyone reading this right now.

S TICKETAT START

ORDER YOUR TICKETS NOW

WORDS OF THE WEEK, from Mark Twain: “You cannot be comfortable without your own approval.”

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ORCHESTRA HALL • 3711 WOODWARD AVE.

BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW…that Destiny’s Child was originally known as Girl’s Tyme.

Steve Holsey can be reached at Svh517@aol.com and PO Box 02843, Detroit, MI 48202.

Let the music play!

15

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Feb. 25 - Mar. 3, 2015 Page D-3

«««STAR CHART ««« Lucky Numbers: 41, 54, 55

If you seem spaced out this week don’t worry about it. Fill your mind with a vision of love for the entire planet. Use your gifts to assist others in seeing the world as you do, in glorious color. Check the details on paperwork that you have to do, dreamer.

Soul Affirmation: Emptiness inside creates the space that I can fill with love.

Lucky Numbers: 17, 21, 29

LEO Be on the lookout for love from a distance source, not just romantic love but the warm glow that comes from someone who cares deeply for you. Think hard about who your lover is. Make a few phone calls. The instant you hear the voice you’ll know –this is the one.

Soul Affirmation: Truth is revealed in the smallest grain of sand.

Lucky Numbers: 18, 29, 27

Soul Affirmation: I find happiness by making those around me happy.

Lucky Numbers: 26, 34, 52 SAGITTARIUS Travel has been on your mind for some time. Buy the tickets. Fuel the car. New surroundings will bring fresh ways of looking at things, which is exactly what you need. A trip that involves creative expression is called for.

Soul Affirmation: I give myself a chance to see how good I can be.

Lucky Numbers: 24, 51, 52

TAURUS Heavy vibrations could cause you to slow down and think a lot. That’s good, because slowing down is just what you need. Remember to think of the positive. Reject the negative and you’ll have a wonderful week.

Soul Affirmation: The slowness of my week gives me time to refresh my energy.

Lucky Numbers: 8, 29, 30

VIRGO Work calls and you’re not completely happy with current divisions of labor. Do your part as a member of the team and you’ll be glad that you did. Others will notice that you are a committed team player. Look for financial rewards from your hard work.

CAPRICORN

Soul Affirmation: Joy is my houseguest this week.

Soul Affirmation: I let go of all resentment and love my life.

Lucky Numbers: 42, 44, 45 GEMINI Give your busy brain a rest and work your body this week. It’s a great week for physical activity that can loosen up muscles and relieve tensions. Also think about your weight problem if you have one. You’ll receive some practical advice from a distant relative.

Soul Affirmation: I let my mind go slack and tighten up my body Lucky Numbers: 23, 29, 40

LIBRA Business looks good this week as you discover a new way of increasing exposure to your product. Let hope and optimism lead you into new beginnings and fresh starts.

All vibes are good, go! Take a good friend with you for help and company on your journey into newness.

Soul Affirmation: Make-believe is real while I believe it.

Lucky Numbers: 12, 36, 49

CANCER Family responsibilities may feel like a chore this week. If you relinquish control of the situation, a natural order will occur, and things will organize themselves. You can let people be who they are. That makes it easier for you to be who you are.

Soul Affirmation: I let go and let the spirit run my life this week

SCORPIO This will be one of those weeks that seem like one you’ve lived before. Good! Make some changes in the way you see things and you’ll make the old new, the routine will become exciting. Communications skill should be excellent. Have some good long talks with relative.

Keep a low voice. Let your presence supply the power, not your words or deeds. Great reward can come from travel with a friend or sweetheart. Remember something that a co-worker has been saying. There is a blessing in it.

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Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson 1-800-535-5727

Lucky Numbers: 18, 32, 55 AQUARIUS Rev up your engines. This is a fine week for making progress with projects that you’ve got in the works.

Your energy is high and your mind is clear. Use every advantage this week to finish up your works.

PISCES A spirit of competition may be troubling you. Let it go. Celebrate differences and get on with the work of creating new hope in the world!

Your tendency to speak without considering the full impact on others should be checked this week.

Soul Affirmation: I seek the lighthearted flavor of love this week.

Lucky Numbers: 3, 18, 19

CROSSWORD PUZZLE: US STATES

ACROSS 1. _____ engine 6. Holiday shelf dweller 9. Facts and figures 13. Drug dealer 14. Petting spot 15. Kind of roll in school 16. Ar on table of elements 17. “Those good’ol boys were drinkin’ whiskey ‘n ___” 18. Cavern or cave 19. *Major peanut producing state 21. *State know for its coffee beans 23. Affirmative action 24. Give one and they take a mile 25. More, in Madrid 28. Covered by a fig leaf?

30. Lao Tzu follower 35. Desert-like 37. *Virginians make this not war?

39. “_____ not, want not” 40. Capri, e.g.

41. Bunch of bees, e.g.

43. Linseed 44. Writer’s opus 46. Aquarium dweller 47. Actress ____ Gilbert 48. Tooth covering 50. They denote a belief or principle 52. “___ Robinson” by Simon & Garfunkel 53. Email button 55. Ghostly sound 57. *Purchased from Russia 60. *It means mountain

in Spanish 64. Schroeder’s musical instrument 65. Modern form of “ye” 67. True self in Hindu philosophy 68. Celestial hunter 69. Clothe 70. “Don’t _____ me!”

71. *North Dakota governor, recalled in 1921, ____ Frazier 72. Da or oui 73. What phoenix did DOWN 1. Catch 2. Container weight without its contents 3. “Cogito ____ sum” 4. It falls in the fall 5. Golden Horde member 6. *12th Governor of

Nebraska, ____ P. Savage 7. Myrna of Hollywood 8. Warm down-slope wind 9. Lady in Spain 10. Not in favor 11. ____ Spelling 12. “We ___ Family” by Sister Sledge 15. Sounds like donkey laugh 20. Kelly Clarkson and Phillip Phillips, e.g.

22. Pre-college challenge 24. Handicapped person 25. *This state name has one syllable 26. Illegal firing 27. Lucius Flavius _____ Nonius Bassus, Masada conqueror 29. *”Field of Dreams” state 31. Stumblebums 32. A predominant religion of Middle East 33. Bart or Ringo 34. *Former independent nation 36. Regard 38. Units of work 42. Cuban dance 45. It’s taught but not always learned 49. Albanian money 51. Beethoven’s “Moonlight _____” 54. Dapper 56. Weasel’s aquatic cousin 57. Ethereal 58. Past participle of “lie” 59. Happening soon, old fashioned 60. Fictional Griffin and actual Ryan 61. Magazine shells 62. Siestas 63. Pot contribution 64. Campaigner, for short 66. Clod chopper

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OBITUARIES Thurman Weddington Bunts

A celebration of the life of Thurman Weddington Bunts took place on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015 at Tobias Funeral Home – Belmont Chapel in Dayton, Ohio. Mr. Bunts, a former Detroiter, had moved to Oakwood, Ohio.

He passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Feb. 11, surrounded by family.

Mr. Bunts earned an MS from the University of Dayton and while attending college, pledged Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity. He also served in the U.S. Air Force, completing his career as a captain.

Left to cherish the memory of Thurman Weddington Bunts are his wife, Susan Wadovsky; brother, Benjamin Scott; niece, Dawn Cyphers; and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Fred Bunts, Sr.; mother, Thelma Bunts; brother, Fred Bunts, Jr.; and niece, Queen Esther Bunts.

Mr. Bunts was laid to rest at Veterans National Cemetery in Dayton. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to our veterans or your favorite charity. Online condolences may be sent to www.tobiasfuneralhome.com.

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COVENANT HOUSE ACADEMY DETROIT SOUTHWEST CAMPUS 1450 25th STREET, DETROIT, MI 48216 Phone: (313) 297-8720 Fax: (313) 297-8730

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Applications for the 2015-2016 academic year will be available at the school for re-enrollment from March 9 through March 27, 2015; for open enrollment from April 13 through May 1, 2015. An answering machine is available for messages.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Applications will be accepted for grades 9-12, serving students ages 16-22. Should applications exceed available space, a random selection drawing will be held on May 4, 2015 at the school.

No Mail Answered 2742 Monroe St., Toledo, Ohio 1-419-248-2145

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Wayne County Airport Authority has a request for proposals (RFP) for a Retail Concession Opportunity at the McNamara Terminal (solicitation # 150269) with a 20% ACDBE goal. There is a non-mandatory pre-proposal meeting and site tour for this opportunity on March 5, 2015 at 9:30 am. An advance reservation is required to attend the site tour. Responses to the RFP are due on April 10, 2015 at 2:00 pm.

Solicitation information available at: www.mitn.info

ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING On the Programmatic Agreement between the City of Detroit and the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office for the historic review of Housing and Community Development activities and projects funded through programs administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

Every year, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) may allocate funds to the City of Detroit or other organizations or agencies which operate within the City of Detroit. Examples of HUD funding programs include the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Program. These funding programs support a broad range of housing and community development activities and projects. Examples of housing and community development activities or projects include home repair or rehabilitation, public facility repair or rehabilitation, and demolition. These activities or projects may affect historically- or culturally-significant buildings, properties or resources. The City of Detroit is responsible to ensure that the activities or projects supported by these funds comply with all applicable historic preservation laws and regulations. The City ensures compliance through coordination and consultation with the appropriate regulatory authority. For HUD-funded activities or project within the City of Detroit, the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is the regulatory authority. However, the Michigan SHPO may delegate certain aspects of its authority to the City of Detroit. The Programmatic Agreement is the legal document that delegates certain authorities to the City of Detroit in order to expedite the review of a HUD-funded activity or project.

AVAILABILITY OF THE DRAFT PROGRAMMATIC AGREEMENT Interested agencies, groups or persons may obtain a paper copy of the draft Programmatic Agreement at the following address: City of Detroit Planning and Development Department 65 Cadillac Square, Suite 1300 Detroit, Michigan, 48226 The Planning and Development Department will provide paper copies of the draft Programmatic Agreement from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday through Friday.

Interested agencies, groups or persons may request an electronic copy of the draft Programmatic Agreement by sending an e-mail to rossj@detroitmi.gov. The subject line of the e-mail should read “PA Request.” The Planning and Development Department will send the electronic copy in an Adobe (.pdf) format.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Interested agencies, groups or persons should mail or deliver written comments to the following address: PA Comments Attention: Jennifer Ross City of Detroit Planning and Development Department 65 Cadillac Square, Suite 1300 Detroit, Michigan, 48226 Interested agencies, groups or persons should send comments via e-mail to rossj@detroitmi.gov. The subject line of the e-mail should read “PA Comments.”

The public meeting will take place on Monday, March 16, 2015, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The public meeting will take place at the following location: Erma Henderson Auditorium Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, 13th Floor 2 Woodward Avenue Detroit, Michigan, 48226 Persons with disabilities (or a designated representative) may request special accommodations in order to effectively participate in the public meeting and comment on the Draft Programmatic Agreement. Persons with disabilities (or a designated representative) may contact Jennifer Ross, Principal City Planner, at 313.224.8907 or rossj@detroitmi.gov to request special accommodations. The City must receive any request for special accommodations by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2015.

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.

Provide ongoing academic advising, program planning and career counseling for Human Resource Development students.

Identify problem areas in policies and procedures and propose changes. Participate in developing curriculum, class schedules and program requirements. Minimum Qualifications: Master’s Degree in guidance & counseling, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Minimum one year experience in academic counseling or advising. Refer to online posting for additional requirements. Salary is up to the mid $40s annually. First consideration will be given to those who apply by March 6, 2015. Apply on line for this position to: https://jobs.oakland.edu

CITY OF RIVER ROUGE POLICE DEPARTMENT The City of River Rouge is currently seeking applications for Part-Time Police Officers to create an eligibility list. Applicants must be 21 yrs of age, a high school diploma, or GED and Associate Degree. Must have proof of valid MCOLES certification as a Certified Officer. Applications may be obtained Mon-Fri 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., March 10th-31st at:

COVENANT HOUSE ACADEMY DETROIT CENTRAL CAMPUS 2959 MLK JR. BLVD., DETROIT, MI 48208 Phone: (313) 899-6900 Fax: (313) 899-6910

River Rouge Police Department 10600 West Jefferson Avenue River Rouge, Michigan 48218 (313)842-0069

Applications for the 2015-2016 academic year will be available at the school for re-enrollment from March 9 through March 27, 2015; for open enrollment from April 13 through May 1, 2015. An answering machine is available for messages.

Its Pays to Advertise in MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

ENTRY LEVEL POLICE OFFICER CITY OF SOUTHGATE, WAYNE COUNTY E.O.E To apply, go to EMPCO’S website at www. empco.net to register for your written exam.

The written exam must be completed by 5:00 pm on March 25, 2015.

Applications will be accepted for grades 9-12, serving students ages 16-22. Should applications exceed available space, a random selection drawing will be held on May 4, 2015 at the school.

Empco, Inc. has been contracted to facilitate the written examination process. Candidates passing the written examination will be contacted to complete an application.

PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK BID PROPOSAL – DEMOLITION OF RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES

For Applicant Requirements: Go to www.southgatemi.org & then click Police Department on the left hand side.

The City of Highland Park is looking for bid proposals from local contractors and builders for the purpose of demolishing residential structures, funded with 2012 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program funds.

Janice M. Ferencz City Clerk

Copies of the bid specifications will be available between 9:00 a.m.

– 4:45 p.m., at the Community and Economic Development Department window, at Highland Park City Hall, Highland Park, MI.

HELP WANTED Bose Corporation Automotive Systems Division has an immediate opening in their Bloomfield Hills, MI facility for an Audio Systems Engineer (#18628BR), who specializes in Acoustics and DSP. Please visit www.bose.com/careers for details about the role and apply directly on-line.

Completed bid packages are due at the City Clerk’s Office at Highland Park City Hall, 12050 Woodward Avenue Highland Park MI 48203 by Wednesday, March 11, 2015 before 11:00 a.m.

All sealed bids will be opened on Monday, March 16, 2015 during the City Council Meeting. The meeting is held in the City of Highland Park City Hall, located at 12050 Woodward Avenue, Highland Park MI 48203. The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. and lasts until all agenda items are addressed. This will be a sealed bid. The outside of the envelope must include the agency name, address, phone number and type of bid. Faxed or e-mailed bids will not be accepted. The City of Highland Park reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any informalities or irregularities in bidding. Bidding contractors must include the appropriate licenses, liability insurance, Worker’s Compensation and certifications for their line of work.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

ATTN: COMPUTER WORK. Work from anywhere 24/7. Up to $1,500 Part Time to $7,500/mo. Full Time.

Training provided.

If you have any questions, please contact Louis Starks, Director of Community and Economic Development at 313-252-0050 Ext. 257, Robert Hudson, Building Official at 313-252-0050, Ext. 209 or Carissa Brown, Administrative Assistant 313-252-0050 Ext. 234.

www.WorkServices3.com

The City of Highland Park is an Equal opportunity housing provider and Employer. We do business in accordance with the Federal Fair Housing and do not discriminate against any person because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.

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Publish: February 25, 2015

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speaks out Defense Fund, that so manyabout the fact childre unable to reach theirn are potential because full they do not receiv e and respec the extra help and deserv t they need e.

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Alexandria The presid stands l comas For centu know how ent said, “We global tourisa major ries leading t attrac tion and elections, to win national cultural Alexandria was and but all too center the Bankole be one continues to it’s during often, philoshome to people of the world Thompson erence of the best refwith differe where we these midterms ry tellsophies and points nt religio end of ancien us the up getting ourselves t past. the Roma that the Greekns. HistoIf there into troubl was ever scholars, like to ers, pioneen emperors, e.” see becom a city that I Jewis rs

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WHAT’S INSI DE

PUBLIC MEETING The Planning and Development Department will hold a public meeting to present information, answer questions, and receive comments on the draft Programmatic Agreement.

School of Education & Human Services

Applications will be accepted for grades 9-12, serving students ages 16-22. Should applications exceed available space, a random selection drawing will be held on May 4, 2015 at the school.

FEBRUARY IS HEART DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH

The City of Detroit invites any interested agency, group or person to submit comments concerning the draft Programmatic Agreement to the Planning and Development Department for review and consideration.

The Planning and Development Department will accept comments by mail, personal delivery, and e-mail. The Planning and Development Department will also accept comments at the public meeting described below. The City will accept and consider all comments so received up to and until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 16, 2015.

ACADEMIC ADVISER at OAKLAND UNIVERSITY

Applications for the 2015-2016 academic year will be available at the school for re-enrollment from March 9 through March 27, 2015; for open enrollment from April 13 through May 1, 2015. An answering machine is available for messages.

City of Detroit Planning and Development Department Michael E. Duggan, Mayor THE PROGRAMMATIC AGREEMENT

Seeking

COVENANT HOUSE ACADEMY DETROIT EAST CAMPUS 7600 GOETHE, DETROIT, MI 48214 Phone: (313) 267-4315 Fax: (313) 267-4320

McNamara Terminal Retail Concession Opportunity with ACDBE Goal

Page D-4

How ell do you w know

Gary Peters?

Group In this column tently stress I ed the have consi making long-term importance sinvestment of Septemb er 17-23,decision s.

2014 To this point, we have lighted highthe impor tance

By Stev of a divers e Holsey ified investment portfo lio, conce Bishop Edga There rns r Vann, about Fifty-eight Brenda ed — whoare those — schools across the Lawrence current this the state troducing are essentially writer inclu have been and Hiram low level of d“Black selected Dennis Jackson. things interversions”opposed to into A. Johns that have Building receive the Faye Nelso of peopl on est rates and always represents Healthy Come or the been White n, Maxin munities Megastar principal for the poten risk that e Beatty . progra and Roch a private-public m. It is two-time actor and in incom for bonds and tial loss of elle Riley. e. reduction initiative ner Denz Oscar windesigned

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Anniversary banquet

“A God of Justice” honoring Detroit’s Spiritual Ambassador Missionary Hattie B. Humphrey. This year’s event will be held at the Crowne Plaza Detroit-Downtown Riverfront Hotel, 2 Washington Blvd. Detroit, Saturday,

March 21, at 6:30 P.M. The phone number is 313-965-4557.

For ticket information please contact Monique Marks @ 313 363-1707 or Michael Van Tull @ 313 283-2572.

Church celebration

Dexter Avenue Baptist Church will be celebrating their 96th church anniversary on Sunday, March 8. We have a host of guest ministers and church families invited to celebrate this special occasion with us. Our 96th church anniversary will start with evening worship services on Wednesday, march 4, through Friday, March 6, at 7:00 p.m., and will culminate on Sunday, March 8, with a full day of celebrations, 7:45 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 3:30 p.M. On Wednesday, March 4, Rev. John duckworth, pastor of Gethsemane Baptist Church, Westland; Thursday, Rev. Bernard Biles, pastor of Church of Our Father, Detroit; Friday, Rev. Kenneth

Rev. Kenneth Flowers Pierce, pastor of Hopewell Baptist Church, Detroit.

On Sunday, March 8, 7:45 a.m and 10:45 a.m., Our own pastor elect, Rev. Richard Rembert White III; 3:30 p.m. Rev. Kenneth James Flowers, immediate pass president of the Michigan Progressive Convention and pastor of Greater New Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, Detroit.

co-chair and the entire Dexter Avenue Baptist Church family invite the public to join us.

Dexter Baptist, where Rev. Richard Rembert White is pastor-elect, is located at 13500 Dexter Ave., Detroit.

For further information please call the church office and (313) 869-4878.

Deacon and Mrs. William Bryant, chair and

On “The Community Shall Be Restored”: “The program is great because Pastor does a great job in allowing people to speak, the questions he asks are good for discussions, and the response he gets from his audience is tremendous.

Prophet Banks: “Charlie, a lot of good things transpired in your life since the last time we had you here on the show.

“I think you got a promotion, or increase, or elevation. Charlie, tell the community, we have almost a million viewers out there, tell them what’s going on in your life.”

Charlie Langton: “Pastor, I always do legal analysis for all the various cases whether it is bankruptcy…I work on WWJ Radio. I am on the radio every morning, doing a lot of things, a lot of legal stuff and fun stuff.

“Then some of the crime in Detroit, weather conditions, it doesn’t matter. FOX 2 besides ‘Let It Rip,’ which always been very good, I’m the new weekend anchor, morning anchor on the news.”

Prophet Banks: “What type of cases been going on in the media that you have been working on, anything unusual, anything different?”

Charlie Langton: Well you know, Pastor, I think bankruptcy is still on the minds of a lot of people.

People want to see what this bankruptcy has done for Detroit. What will it do for Detroit? We are done with all I think the fighting with the Emergency Manager, Kevin Orr is gone.”

Prophet Banks: “I think next week is his last week.”

Charlie Langton: “Maybe sooner if he can get the finishing touches on this final plan. But, bottom line, it was not a good time for Detroit. People wanted some investment

Quartet Night at Mt. Zion

Mt. Zion Men presented Quartet Night for Valentine’s Day at the the church, 3600 Van Dyke and Mack Avenue. It included dinner and music by uhe Mighty Walker Brothers and the TrumpetLettes. Rev. Dr. S.L. Jones is pastor. Seated: Rev. S.L. Jones. Standing from left: O’ Neil D. Swanson Sr., trustee, president/CEO, Swanson Funeral Homes Inc., First Lady Gwendolyn Jones, Judge Maggie Braxton and Deacon Murphy Prince.

OBITUARIES Brenda Laverne Littles

Prophet Cedric Banks and FOX 2 News legal analyst Charlie Langton

When Prophet Cedric Banks welcomed FOX 2 News legal analyst Charlie Langton to “The Community Shall Be Restored” television program, Charlie Langton replied, “Last time I was on your show, I just thought it was so good. I like this energy you bring, the comradery of everybody here, it’s really fun to see, I love it.

Good stuff.”

Feb. 25 - Mar. 3, 2015 Page D-5

in their government and they didn’t get that and there are a lot of reasons why they didn’t get that, and it took an emergency manager. But when you look back I think people will see hope, that the debt, big debt of Detroit is gone.

“The way we restructure financing is maybe now a little more secure than it was before, and when you emphasize community services in this bankruptcy, I think if we can see the result of it in a year or two or three, I think people will look back on this time and say, you know what, bankruptcy really wasn’t that bad. It is hard to say it now I get it, I know it.”

Prophet Banks: “Right, You know one of the things that got us in this position I truly believe, we had a lot of politicians come in this city and taken a lot of money from Detroit.

“He has a good group of loyal followers. I am very impressed with the quality of guests he is able to get on his show.”

Upcoming Guests for “The Community Shall Be Restored” television program March 7, Detroit Inspector General James Heath; March 14, Charlie Beckham, director for Department of Neighborhoods, Mayor’s Office; Ed Egnatios, program officer, Kellogg Foundation; March 21, Rev. Lonnie Peek, political analyst and CEO eBusiness Services; April 11, Tonya Allen, CEO, Skillman Foundation; June, Captain Rodney Cox, 9th Precinct Detroit Police Dept.; June 20, Lisa Howze, Director of Governmental Affairs for City of Detroit

Charlie Langton: “Yes”

Tune in to “The Community Shall Be Restored” television program every Sunday at 11:00 am on Comcast TV20. You can also stream the program online on www.bgntvgospel.com.

Prophet Banks: “That is one of the things that got us in this position.

But people don’t want to hear that. They want to blame Lansing.

For more information or to book Prophet Banks for speaking engagements you can email donetta.3@hotmail.com or call 586.222.6307.

“But Lansing has no control over in the city of Detroit, when someone takes $350,000 or one million dollars. Lansing has no control over what that man does, you know and a lot of people bring attacks at me and that. We have city leaders that have done a lot of taking and I have to come up against that, and they have set the city back many, many, years.

Charlie Langton: “Hopefully the people that were doing the taking are now in prison. You can’t build that jail fast enough for some of them.”

Charlie Langton comments on Prophet Cedric Banks “Pastor Banks does a fine job of gathering community, discussing important issues and offering suggestions to the people of Detroit and the area.”

Services for Brenda Laverne Littles were held on Friday, Feb. 6, 2015 at Zion Hope Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Curtis R. Grant officiating. She passed away on Jan. 28.

Brenda Laverne Littles was born on June 17, 1964 in Akron, Alabama to Barnie and Sarah Neil Collins. After moving to Detroit, she attended public schools, graduating from Osborn High School. After graduation she attended Wayne County Community College and High-

retail management. She was a member of Second Ebenezer Church. She married Elmo James Littles and they were blessed with four children.

land Park Community College.

Her first career was teaching at Transfiguration Academy Catholic School, her second in

Left behind to cherish the memory of Brenda Laverne Littles are her husband, James; children, Demetrius, DeJuan, DeAira and DeAisha; and many other relatives and friends.

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements. Interment took place at Mt. Elliott Cemetery.

Samuel Bernard Ballard

A homegoing celebration for Samuel Bernard Ballard took place Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2015 at Detroit Unity Temple, where he was a member, with Rev. Gregory Guice officiating. Mr. Ballard made his transition on Jan. 26.

graduating from Eastern High School. He was employed by Chrysler for 22 years.

Samuel Bernard Ballard, affectionately known as “Touchie,” was born in Detroit on Sept. 8, 1949 to the late Samuel and Ruby Bal-

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements. Interment was at Elmwood Cemetery.

Left behind to cherish the memory of Mr. Ballard are his son, Daren Walker, and numerous other relatives and friends.

lard. He attended Catholic and public school,

Parker family to be laid to rest James and Freddye Parker along with their two sons, James, 11 and Jarred, 7, will be laid to rest Wednesday, February 25th at Greater Grace Temple on Detroit’s west side. The Parker family were all killed in a fire at their home located in the 5000 block of Yemans in Hamtrack last week.

James and Freddye will be remembered for the involvement work with the Motor City All- Stars youth team, which is affiliated with the Detroit Ath-

letic League.

Parker Family Funeral Arrangements Wednesday, February 25, 2015 Greater Grace Temple 23500 W. 7 Mile Rd 10am- Family Hour 11am Funeral Services Funeral Arrangements will be handled

by Swanson Funeral Home

Page D-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Feb. 25 - Mar. 3, 2015

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Official Networking & Unveiling Reception Wednesday, April 22, 2015 | 6 p.m.

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