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Volume 79 – Number 16

WHAT’S INSIDE

Political pioneer Daisy Elliott leaves her mark in history

Touching Communities. Touching Lives.™ A PUBLICATION OF MGM GRAND DETROIT

December 2015

Holiday season inspires the best form of giving at MGM Grand Detroit

By Scott Talley Special to the Michigan Chronicle

Photo by Rogers Foster

During the magic of the holiday season there are many ways to give back and touch lives in impactful ways, and MGM Grand Detroit team members have experienced this joy firsthand.

From opening its doors to spread goodwill where it was needed most, to addressing year-round hunger in our region, MGM Grand Detroit gladly did its part to transform the holiday season to the giving season “The holiday party that MGM Grand Detroit provided for the residents of Covenant House Michigan was nothing short of tremendous,” said Gerald Piro, executive director of Covenant House Michigan, a faith based nonprofit organization that provides hope

Continue on page 3

Inside This Issue • Holiday season is giving back season at MGM Grand Detroit.

• Sean Anderson Foundation impacts the lives of area youth in “Big” ways.

• MGM Grand Detroit team members Ray and Krystal Shackelford find joy through service to others.

• And much more!

By Roz Edward

Republican opposition to straight ticket voting (Page A-5) Expecting to be taken seriously, the Republican-controlled legislature voted to eliminate straight ticket voting, claiming this was done to encourage voters not to just blindly vote one way or the other.

But there is far more to the story than that. It has even been labeled “underhanded.”

The whys and wherefores of panic attacks (Page B-1) Most people have heard of panic attacks, but not many know what they actually are or what causes them, although they may have had such attacks themselves. Dr. Carmen McIntyre explains panic attacks in great detail.

Top 10 Detroit business stories of 2015 (Page C-1) In 2015, Detroit pulled off one of the biggest municipal comebacks in U.S. history, essentially rescuing the city from becoming a rust-belt ghost town as so many naysayers predicted. This week we present an inspiring look back.

Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016

When a key political advocate for social justice leaves office, a void appears as supporters and opponents wait for a suitable successor. When a beloved and essential member of a community like former State Rep. Daisy Elliott dies a hole is created in the social and political fabric of neighborhoods, states and ultimately the nation.

Michigan’s longtime standard bearer for justice and equality authored and co-sponsored the landmark Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights act of 1976 died on Tuesday, Dec. 22, at DMC Sinai-Grace Hospital. She was 98.

Photo credits: Keena Jackson (Anthony Tolson with bass guitar) and Keith Owens (phonecam pics of press conference). The above photo was taken at Central Baptist Church. several hours beforeTolson was murdered.

Silent night, another bloody night Pastors join with musicians to seek justice for slain bass player Anthony Tolson

By Keith A. Owens SENIOR EDITOR

The murder rate in Detroit may be going down, but that doesn’t matter much to the family of bass player Anthony Tolson, who was murdered on Christmas Eve by a group of carjackers. Tolson had just finished performing at his church and was on his way to his mother’s house with Christmas gifts for his three young children that he planned to open with them on Christmas morning.

It also doesn’t make things better for the family of 7-year-old Chanell Berry, who was murdered several days later while playing with her Christmas toys inside her house on Sunday with a friend when gunshots sprayed through the window, allegedly due to some crazy family drama involving a jealous ex-girlfriend who had returned to the house for revenge. Chenell’s 8-year-old friend, Ellen Garjo, was shot three times but survived.

It’s hard to celebrate more than 300 gun killings in a year, no matter how you want to package it. That many dead bodies, most of them erased due to senseless violence, is simply not good news. On Monday morning, a large group of more than 50 Detroit-area pastors from a wide variety of denominations,

See TOLSON page A-4

Elliott was a delegate to the 1961– 1962 Michigan state constitutional convention from Wayne County 4th District, which resulted in Michigan’s Constitution of 1963. A Democrat, she represented Wayne County’s 4th District in the Michigan House of RepDaisy Elliott resentatives from 1963-1964, Michigan’s 22nd District, which replaced Wayne County’s 4th District, from 1965–1972, and Michigan’s 8th District from 1973–1978 and again from 1981–1982.

Elliott, who spent nearly 18 years in public service in the State House, is best known in the political arena for garnering support and ultimately getting the 1976 law that banned discrimination in employment and housing in Michigan passed. The nationally renowned, but gentle activist is credited for having the political savvy and foresight to reach out across the aisle to her Republican counterpart Mel Larsen and enlist his support in co-sponsoring the ground breaking legislation.

“When you see all the un-cooperation and lack of bipartisan support that goes on today, that was a very wonderful thing,” Larsen said in a statement after learning of Elliott’s passing. “She spent a lot of years trying to get that through. It was not an easy task,” he added. “She was a grand lady … (who) just went around getting things done.”

After learning of Elliott’s death: Mayor Duggan issued the following statement: “Daisy Elliott was a leader in the battle for civil rights and equality in Michigan. She spoke out against discrimination. She stood up for what was right. Even though it wasn’t necessarily the popular thing to do at the time, she did it because it was the right thing to do. We are proud that such a champion chose to call Detroit her home. Our thoughts are with her family.”

2015: Entertainment highlights (Page D-1) Janet Jackson returned with a bang, Regina King won a Primetime Emmy Award, “Empire” was the hottest show on television, Bill Cosby was badly sidetracked by scandal, and Viola took home an Emmy. These are just some of the outstanding stories of the year gone by.

See DAISY

The definitive Top 10 news stories of 2015

By Keith A. Owens SENIOR EDITOR

No matter which 10 stories I pick, it’s already a given that this list will either not include 1 to 10 stories that at least one of you thought should be on the list, or 1 to 10 of the 10 stories I picked somebody somewhere will be shaking their head in amazement that I could have possibly considered any of these things a big deal.

Understood.

$1.00

ELLIOTT page A-4

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, I’m moving on. Because 2015 is almost done and I gotta get this written before the ball drops. I most definitely do not plan to be sitting here after deadline, still madly typing away, while everyone else is off somewhere sipping champagne

Well..kinda...

(or something more potent) and blowing party horns.

Actually, I don’t expect to be doing any of that as 2015 winds down (well, except for the champagne and a sizable quantity of the “something more potent”), but it’s just the principle of the thing. So, without further ado, here’s my list of the (more or less) Top 10 stories (kinda, and in no particular order, because I’m tired) that happened in 2015.

See you on the other side... #1. #BlackLivesMatter There are those of us of a certain age who remember a world before hashtags. Truth be told, we remember a world before personal computers. But these days,

don’t know how to properly use a hashtag. And in 2015, #BlackLivesMatter has truly become the hashtag that roared. Originally begun in 2012 after the murder of Trayvon Martin, it has now become the sort of social juggernaut of a movement that Occupy Wall Street tried to be but wasn’t quite as successful. Admittedly there have been a few stumbles here and there, but what other hashtag has managed to insert itself as a “must discuss topic” in a presidential campaign?

Movement politics will be alive in 2016, and the continually growing strength of #BlackLivesMatter has quite a bit to do with that. #2. Flint water crisis

anyone who claims to know how to make something pop and sizzle on the Internet can’t be considered serious if they

Thanks in large part to a steadfastly determined group of Flint residents who refused to

See 2015 page A-4

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Dec. 30, 2015 – Jan. 5, 2016

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Governor acknowledges apologies not enough for Flint water catastrophe

By Keith A. Owens SENIOR EDITOR

Gov. Snyder responded Tuesday to the initial findings of his appointed Flint Water Task Force, acknowledging the harm that had been done to the Flint community under his watch, and pledging to do whatever was necessary to make the situation right. Snyder also pointed out that Dan Wyant, director of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, has offered his resignation, and that Snyder has accepted that resignation.

Snyder’s statement says some of the right things, and it’s nice to know that at least now he seems to have a better understanding of the magnitude of the crisis that is Flint. It is sorely tempting to say “too little too late,” however it can also be argued that if anyone should be front and center managing this crisis and accepting the blame it should be Gov. Snyder. This is not an issue that should be passed along to anyone else.

This tragedy occurred under his watch, and this is the governor’s big chance to show whether he truly means what he says about making this right.

If ever there was a time for this relentless positive action that we keep hearing so much about, then this is it.

But before moving on to the actual text of Snyder’s remarks, it should also be noted that Michigan’s Independent Auditor General Doug Ringler has also issued a report, and it doesn’t exactly let the governor off the hook. After all, it was the governor who appointed the all-powerful emergency manager who approved the deal allowing for Flint’s population to drink poisoned water to save money. Despite Darnell Earley’s protestations to the contrary in an oped submitted to the Michigan Chronicle several weeks ago, where he said the decision to switch to Flint water was made by elected city officials and not by him, Ringler’s report makes it

plain that the emergency manager (that would be Earley) was indeed responsible for signing off on the switch. Darnell Earley is now emergency manager for the Detroit Public Schools.

For those who might wonder why the acid tone, it probably has something to do with the fact that the lives of innocent children in Flint have been effectively ruined by drinking poisoned water, brought to them courtesy of their elected and non-elected representatives who denied anything was wrong for over a year before being forced to finally admit the truth.

Making this right will not be easy, to say the least.

From Michigan Radio:

“Ringler’s review confirms it was the state appointed emergency manager who made the decision to switch to the Flint River, not city leaders. It also confirmed that Detroit’s water system made offers to keep Flint as a water customer, but that a different emergency manager rejected those offers.”

And here is Gov. Engler’s response to the findings of the Flint Water Task Force in total: “When I became aware that the city of Flint’s water showed elevated lead levels and that the state’s handling of the situation was being questioned, I requested funding to switch the source back to the Great Lakes Water Authority and appointed an independent task force to identify possible missteps and areas for improvement.

“The task force has done an exceptional job, reviewing stacks of documents and interviewing scores of Flint, Genesee County, state and federal officials. Although the task force’s final report is not yet completed, members have made me aware of some interim findings and corrective steps that I have decided to take immediately in order to restore trust in how the state keeps its citizens safe and informed.

“We’ll continue to work with the communi-

ty members to make sure we hear and respond to their concerns.

“In addition, MDEQ Director Dan Wyant has offered his resignation, and I’ve determined that it’s appropriate to accept it. I’m also making other personnel changes at MDEQ to address problems cited by the task force.

“But changes in leadership and staff are not enough. I understand there can be disagreements within the scientific community. That is why I have directed both

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the departments of Environmental Quality and Health and Human Services to invite every external scientist who has worked on this issue to be our partners in helping us improve Flint water. Let’s share research on water and blood lead level testing so we can arrive at accurate and mutually supported conclusions. Together, we should work to affirm that we’re using the very best testing protocols to ensure Flint residents have safe drinking water and that we’re taking steps to protect their

health over the short and long term.

“I want the Flint community to know how very sorry I am that this has happened. And I want all Michigan citizens to know that we will learn from this experience, because Flint is not the only city that has an aging infrastructure.

“I know many Flint citizens are angry and want more than an apology.

That’s why I’m taking the actions today to ensure a culture of openness and trust. We’ve already allocated $10 million to

test the water, distribute water filters, and help in other ways. Last week, I called Flint Mayor Karen Weaver, and we’re going to meet soon to discuss other ways the state can offer assistance.

“These are only initial steps - we fully expect to take more actions following the recommendations of our task force. When it comes to matters of health and quality of life, we’re committed to doing everything we can to protect the well-being of our citizens.”

Stay tuned.

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Macomb County

MSU Extension offers free six week nutrition and exercise programs In partnership with The Lake House, MSU Extension (MSUE) is offering “Eat Healthy, Be Active,” a six-week nutrition and physical activity program for adults that helps participants increase their nutrition and exercise knowledge and promotes a healthy lifestyle. Participants will learn how to plan, prepare and budget for healthy, affordable, delicious meals as well as learn many exercises that can be done right at home.

The program is taking place from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. and from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. every Tuesday for six consecutive weeks from Jan. 5 through Feb. 9, 2016. The program will be held at The Lake House, 26701 Little Mack Avenue, Saint Clair Shores, 48081.

In partnership with The Great Start Readiness Program, MSU Extension (MSUE) is offering “Healthy Foods, Healthy Families,” a six-week nutrition and physical activity program for adults with kids. The program helps participants increase their nutrition and exercise knowledge. Participants will discuss how to plan, prepare and budget for healthy, affordable, delicious and kid-friendly meals as well as discuss ways to get children involved in the healthy-eating and cooking process. A complimentary dinner will be provided at each session!

There are three different series dates and location options: • Romeo: From 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Jan. 5, Feb. 2, March 1, April 5 and May 3, 2016 at Croswell Center (cafeteria), 175 Croswell Street, Romeo, 48065.

• Warren: From 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 8, April 12 and May 10, 2016 at Westview Elementary (cafeteria), 24077 Warner Avenue, Warren, 48091.

• Clinton Township: From 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Jan. 19, Feb. 16, March 15, April 20 and May 17, 2016 at Macomb Intermediate School District (MI/Superior Room & 100ABC), 44001 Garfield Road, Clinton Township, 48038.

Advance registration is required and space is limited for all of the above mentioned classes. To register, visit www.greatstartmacomb.org. Be sure to specify which class time you would like to attend when you RSVP. For more information, contact Tiahna at (586) 469-4252 or haystiah@anr.msu.edu.

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See how the new lung cancer screening could give you a brighter future.

If you are a current or former heavy smoker between the ages of 55 and 80, chances are

you’ve wondered if you could have lung cancer.

Now there is an easy and painless lung cancer

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your life. Talk to your healthcare provider about lung cancer screenings, and let us light the way to answers at michigan.gov/cancer.

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Zaki Albokhshem

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Dec. 30, 2015 – Jan. 5, 2016

Page A-3

Repopulating Detroit:

Welcoming immigrants and refugees is necessary

By Ali Harb & Merinda Valley Zaki Albokhshem, an international student from Saudi Arabia, is studying to be a special education teacher. He has been in Detroit for 10 months, and he already aspires to call the city home.

Albokhshem wants to become a permanent resident. He said opportunities are plentiful in the city, and the large Arab and immigrant communities make him feel like he belongs here.

“If Detroit is ever going to stabilize its population loss, frankly, it’s going to have to get serious about being inclusive and being open and welcoming to immigrants,” he said.

Welcoming city

The former state representative added that communities’ needs may be different, but addressing the challenges of a certain group does not mean ignoring others’.

Tobocman said the United States has historically done a great job of accommodating newcomers because of efforts at the local level.

He said it is in Detroiters’ self-interest to be welcoming, adding that old and new residents share the same goals and challenges.

He added that in Detroit, there is a strong network of groups to help immigrants and refugees.

At a Nov. 29 town hall meeting on the refugee crisis, Wendell Anthony, the president of Detroit’s NAACP, echoed Tobocman’s remarks.

He cited as an example GlobalMatDetroit.org, which connects newcomers to about 700 organizations, including nonprofits and business advocacy groups.

“What makes Detroit special to me is all the Arabic grocery stores and Islamic centers,” he said. “Everybody treats me well.”

Tobocman highlighted Global Detroit’s emphasis on granting immigrants access to these resources by tackling the linguistic and cultural barriers.

Fahman Amri, Albokhshem’s friend, is already experiencing the success the international student is seeking.

He said municipal initiatives like the mayor’s Immigrant Affairs office and the city council’s Immigration Task Force help make Detroit a destination for those moving to the United States.

Amri immigrated to the United States from Yemen 15 years ago. He moved to Detroit in 2009 and now owns 14 homes here.

As a handyman, Amri is taking advantage of the Detroit Land Bank auctions.

The city is auctioning abandoned properties from a starting price of $1,000 on the condition that the new owner bring the home up to habitable code within six months.

Amri is fixing the houses himself to sell or rent, mostly to other Arab American immigrants. But his investment in Detroit is not only financial; it is also personal. Amri, a father of six, said he hopes his children remain in the city after they grow up.

“This is my home,” he said. “I am staying here, not going anywhere.”

“Detroit has unparalleled opportunities for growth and for creating a new home,” Tobocman said. “There is low cost housing; there are low barriers to becoming business owners. The city can become very navigable. It’s also easy to establish a community from people who come from the same country, who speak your language and share your culture and religion.”

He added that the large public school system ensures bilingual programs for students.

Tobocman, a Jewish American, moved to Detroit about 20 years ago. He said he was welcomed despite religious and ethnic differences.

Iraqi American resident Riyadh Musa, who arrived in the city as a refugee 20 years ago, said a new wave of immigrants from his home country is helping stabilize the Warrendale neighborhood.

He was elected to the State House of Representatives in 2002. In 2008, he was succeeded by Rashida Tlaib, a Muslim Arab American, who was succeeded last year by Stephanie Chang, an Asian American.

“They report anybody who is selling drugs or has a gun; they’re not used to it,” he said.

Tobocman said this voting pattern is a testament to Detroiters’ fondness of diversity.

Detroit lost more than 25 percent of its population over the past 12 years.

Fewer than 700,000 residents remain.

“Not an either-or”

Vice President Joe Biden called Detroit a “comeback city” in September.

Residents say services are improving.

There are more buses and street lights.

Downtown businesses are thriving. But the shrinking residential base remains an obstacle to Detroit’s comeback.

City leaders and organizers are aiming to attract newcomers from outside the country to help with repopulation.

Detroit is already home to 36,000 immigrants.

Despite national and state efforts to pause resettlement of Syrian refugees in the country because of safety concerns, Detroit officials are still committed to welcoming those fleeing the war.

Steve Tobocman, the director of Global Detroit, said settling immigrants and refugees in Detroit is essential for economic recovery.

equitable.”

Though he lauded Detroit’s inclusiveness, Tobocman acknowledged that some are skeptical of newcomers and demand greater efforts to help existing residents. But he said programs that assist immigrants are available to everyone.

“This is not an either-or-equation,” he said. “This is an and-equation.”

To illustrate his point, Tobocman cited ProsperUS Detroit, a Global Detroit initiative to train and finance entrepreneurs. He said 85 percent of the program’s graduates are African American Detroiters.

“This isn’t about ‘We’re only funding immigrant businesses or refugee businesses,’” he said. “This is saying that Detroit needs more businesses, more job opportunities, more retail opportunities in its neighborhoods. We want to be a part of working with low income communities of color to help rebuild the city in a way that will be inclusive and

Anthony said being open to refugees does not mean losing sight of the problems in the neighborhoods. He added that complaining about opportunities for newcomers is divisive.

“There’s enough work in America for everybody to be working and for everybody to have access,” he said.

Anthony said immigrants and refugees bring skills that help the entire community.

At the same meeting, Nabih Ayad, the founder of the Arab American Civil Rights League, said refugees from the Middle East who have settled here are well educated and business oriented.

“Immigrants are what makes this country so strong,” he said. “They’re not a threat to the economy; they boost the economy, especially when you have a community that’s entrepreneurial.”

According to a report by Fiscal Policy Institute, immigrants in the metro Detroit area are twice as likely to own small businesses than U.S.-born residents.

“It’s not like ‘immigrants versus Detroiters’ — it’s ‘immigrants are Detroiters,’” said Councilwoman Raquel Castañeda-López.

Municipal Efforts Castañeda-López co-founded the Detroit Immigration Task Force with Councilman André Spivey last year. The initiative supports current and incoming immigrant communities and fosters international relations.

Molding Detroit into a global city is at the center of those efforts, Castañeda-López said.

She said being an inclusive city extends beyond economic development.

Housing, uniting longtime residents and newcomers, and advocating for immigrants’ rights are also part of the equation.

Detroit officials say services that help newcomers benefit all residents.

The city’s municipal ID program, set to take effect next year, is one example.

The identification card will assist those who are unable to obtain a state ID, including some in the African American, homeless, senior and immigrant communities.

In October, Mayor Mike Duggan created the office of Immigrant Affairs, which is intended to be a hub connecting newcomers to city resources.

Fayrouz Saad, director of the new department, said her office is working to catalogue resources from the city and from private nonprofit organizations.

Immigrant Affairs collaborates with Motor City Match, which links businesses to funding and real estate opportunities; the Arab American Chamber of Commerce; Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation and ACCESS, among others.

Hachem Ossieran, operations manager for Employment and Training Services in ACCESS’ Detroit office, estimates that refugees and immigrants comprise about 20 percent of his client base.

He said immigrants and refugees do not need assistance indefinitely; they can grow to become job creators.

Anti-immigrant sentiment on the rise Saad said anti-refugee sentiment, which has become increasingly prevalent over the past few weeks, has not affected her office.

“We are still moving forward in our work as we have been,” she said.

Last week Mayor Duggan reiterated his commitment to resettling 50 refugee families in the city each year for the next three years.

That benchmark is part of an effort to responsibly grow the population, rather than inviting new residents only to build the tax base, Councilwoman Castañeda-López said.

“Although the city could physically absorb thousands of people, in terms of services and infrastructure, we just don’t have the capacity to take that many,” she added.

She cited language services as one area that the city needs to improve.

Castañeda-López said the task force is trying to develop a comprehensive repopulation plan that involves social, cultural, academic and economic components for all Detroiters.

Tobocman said there are many myths about immigration, which Global Detroit tries to dispel.

“The facts are that immigrants are job-makers, not job-takers; that they are a huge benefit to the neighborhoods in the city of Detroit, as well as across the region.”

This piece is part of the series “Detroit Bankruptcy: One Year Later,” presented by the partners of the Detroit Journalism Cooperative.

The DJC journalists continue to explore the impacts of the city’s bankruptcy, including effects on people, neighborhoods and southeast Michigan, and the case’s long-term implications. Their collective work, which is archived at NextChapterDetroit.com, continues to inform regional conversations.

One of these discussions will happen at a free, community event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 9, at Wayne State University’s Community Arts Auditorium, 450 Reuther Mall. Audiences are invited to attend and ask questions of some of the key figures in the bankruptcy case. Learn more or register.

Funding for this project made possible by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Renaissance Journalism’s Michigan Reporting Initiative and the Ford Foundation.

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Tolson and an equally large representation of local musicians, gathered at Central Baptist Church on Detroit’s northwest side to conduct a press conference to declare in one voice that “enough is enough” after Tolson’s Christmas Eve slaying. Central Baptist was Tolson’s church, and it was also the site of his last performance before heading home to see his children.

Although faced with the painful fact that too many similar press conferences and remembrances have been held in years past, each of them filled with outrage and commitments from all present that this had to stop, those in attendance were nevertheless somewhat hopeful that this time would be different.

Rev. Charles Williams, senior pastor of King Solomon Baptist Church and president of the National Action Network’s Detroit Branch, spoke to a reporter outside the church before the press conference began. He speculated that because Tolson was killed on Christmas Eve, was leaving a church performance to go see his children, and was planning to become an ordained minister, these were all factors that could launch this particular tragic occurrence above the fray into a community rallying cry that might actually be heeded this time.

Joe Smith, a local musician who joined the crowded stage at the front of the church to speak out on behalf of his friend and colleague, also felt that Tolson’s death could be a turning point — but only if the Detroit community stands up. This was a sentiment widely echoed throughout the press conference.

“I just want to say that the reason why the music community has come together so much is time. Many of us have worked with Tolson, some of us haven’t, some of us have worked with him more than others. The reason why this has brought us together so much is that we all realize it could have been any one of us. How many times have we left rehearsal, left church service, left the studio, at night? Thinking it was just routine, going to get something to eat then going home. Or stop by the store and go home. Never realizing that something like this could happen to any one of us. And so that’s why it resonates so much with me is because what he was doing that night I have done kazillions of times. We just ask that anybody who knows anything please speak up. Not snitching has not brought us anything. That culture has not benefited us at all. In any type of way.

“We’re gonna miss Anthony Tolson. He was a great musician, he was a silly guy, he was a fun guy, he was good at what he did.

It’s sad that all that talent is gone now,” said Smith.

Kern Brantley, another Detroit musician contacted later after the press conference, described Tolson as “an amazing bass player” whom he had hired to back up such major national acts as Lady Gaga and Young Jeezy.

But what he said stood out about Tolson, whom he has known personally for nearly 15 years, was his dedication and commitment to his children, as well as his pro-

2015

be played for stupid when their elected representatives tried to convince them that the dramatically off-colored water spewing forth from their faucets was actually safe and drinkable, the entire nation has now been made aware of one of the most horrifically disturbing stories to come out of Michigan in quite awhile. Because a number of Flint’s children — and many adults as well — have become the victims of lead poisoning, and had their futures irreparably damaged, due to the willful ignorance of those who were elected to represent their best interests.

The details of the story and who knew what when are rather twisted and complex, and many of those involved are still busy pointing the finger down the road to “that other guy.” But thanks to some extremely indepth reporting by ACLU investigative reporter Curt Guyette, it has become increasingly difficult for the guilty parties to duck and dodge. This is truly one of those instances where apologies just aren’t enough. #3. Donald Trump In the beginning, very few took him seriously. There was the comical hairdo, the hot airbag bluster, and the multiplicity of outrageous comments stacked high one on top of the other. No way could this guy get elected was what everyone seemed to be saying not that many months ago. But today, the most gleefully racist, big-

Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016

Page A-4

From page A-1 fessionalism. Tolson’s commitment to being a good family man was what made Brantley want to hire him because it reflected his responsibility.

The fact that a jam session held in his memory on Sunday night at Black Beat, a Southfield night club, raised more than $7,000 is strong evidence of the high regard in which Tolson was held by his fellow musicians. Another jam session was held Tuesday night at Baker’s Keyboard Lounge.

Bishop James Williams, who serves as the faith-based program manager for Crime Stoppers, chimed in on the importance of a united community to combat the violence, referring to the perpetrators of that violence as a “poison.”

“We don’t have enough law enforcement officers to root out the cancer in our community, unless our community stands up and speaks up. The community, in my mind, is a body, and your body is made in such a way that it rejects poisons and cancers. The kind of people that will murder, with no thought of innocent upstanding people like Anthony Tolson, are poison. And as a body we must root them out. Somebody knows something. Somebody has to say something.”

Pastor Robert Bolton, of Central Baptist Church, said, “It may not have been your family, but it could have been your family.

It could have been your son, it could have been your father, your brother.”

City council members James Tate and Andre Spivey were also present. Spivey received an enthusiastic round of applause when he said, “No one can come and save us in our community.

We must save ourselves.”

Bishop Edgar Vann, who served as master of ceremonies for the event, expressed both surprise and appreciation that so many pastors and musicians had come out in such a united force during what is typically such a busy and hectic time of the year.

“We have come together as never before. This is in the middle of the holiday season. It is in the middle of a very, very busy time for pastors and other leaders to be here. And also for musicians.

What I’m extremely grateful for is that this has struck a chord in the musician community throughout the city of Detroit, which is very, very vast, and very, very talented.

“We are standing as one voice to leverage our power and our influence to make sure that we get to the bottom of this. Enough is enough. This is an opportunity to change the culture in this city. Hopefully this is a watershed moment.”

“We’re here for all the families.

We’re here for all the victims of senseless violence. To us all the lives matter.”

Those wishing to make a contribution to Tolson’s family can go to gofundme.com, then type “Anthony Tolson” into the search bar. For the family of Chanell Berry, type in “Justice for Chanell.”

West Seven Rams win National Championship

By Princess Hayes

If you know of the Detroit Police Athletic League, then you’re probably familiar with their championship team, the West Seven Rams. And for the few of you who don’t know what PAL is, it is a non-profit organization in partnership with the Detroit Police Department and community volunteers that offer athletic, academic and leadership development programs.

The West Seven Rams are one of the top sports programs and athletic organizations in PAL for football and cheerleading. The West Seven Rams are a division of the West Seven Youth Club, a non-profit 501.C.3, established in 1966 as an alternate after school program for inner city children ages 5 -14.

The West Seven Rams have won four of the last five city championships at Ford Field.

Averaging 35 points a game this season and only allowing two touchdowns to be scored against them during the entire season. The West Seven Rams head coach, Harold McCullough, along with a group of talented and committed assistant coaches, led the undefeated West 7 Rams’ C-TEAM to the United Youth Football League National Championship, which took place in Tampa. It almost goes without saying that the Rams took home the championship trophy. The defense only gave up one touchdown and this is the first national championship win in West 7 Rams football history.

Some of the key players for the West 7 Rams C-TEAM are: Lenard Covington age 10 (RB/LB), Glennie Cross age 10 (RB/WR/FS), Isaiah Marshall age 9 (QB/FS), Jeremiah Beasley age 9 (RB/LB), Lamont Gordon age 10 (DB) and Rayshawn Mesheer age 10 (LB/TE).

Detroit entrepreneurs and athletes give to Covenant House

By AJ Williams Helping to make the season a bit brighter for the young residents of Covenant House Michigan, Detroit Lions’ Ziggy Ansah along with several teammates, Microsoft and help from two metro businesses, The Gentleman’s Box and retailer, Pink Pump hosted the 4th annual holiday ‘Lions Den Dinner’ on Tuesday, Dec. 22.

Starters Bar & Grill in Detroit provided the dinner that the Lions players graciously helped serve to each resident. While eating and playing games provided my Microsoft, more than youth received special gifts gen-

erously donated by The Gentleman’s Box, a men’s toiletries and access company, and the Pink Pump shoe and clothing retailer. The youth received ties, socks, lotion, shampoo, nail polish and other items donated by the two metro Detroit companies. “Giving is the real reason for the season, we are honored to be able to give back and help the communities in which we serve and live in,” said Chris George, CEO of Gentleman’s Box. “I was eager to participate in this year’s 4th Annual ‘Lion Den Dinner,’” said Kelly Kirkwood, CEO of Pink Pump. Giving back is a reflection of our brand promise and as a business owner, it’s my job to support and be engaged in community initiatives.”

Daisy Elliott

From page A-1

The Elliott-Larsen Act written in 1976, 12 years into her 18-year tenure, banned discrimination statewide in employment, housing and public accommodations based on religion race, national origin, age, sex and other factors. It is considered by many political experts to be the “most comprehensive and inclusive civil rights law to date.”

“Daisy Elliott was a political warrior,” said Rev. Wendell Anthony, Detroit Branch NAACP president. “She was a part of an era when politicians stood on their convictions and their convictions stood them up. The convictions were of course rooted in the heart and soul of their people. We are better because of Daisy Elliott. Civil rights are broader and our humanity runs deeper. She made her mark. Let

us all work as she did, and make our own.”

Elliott was also instrumental in the creation of the Michigan Civil Rights Commission in 1963 to provide and enforce guarantees against discrimination as prescribed by the Michigan Constitution.

“Daisy Elliott stands as one of the greatest civil rights leaders this state has ever produced,” said Arthur Horowitz, chairman of the Michigan Civil Rights Commission. “All of us who strive to make Michigan a more just and equitable place are indebted to her for her courage and her foresight.”

Daisy Elliott was buried on Monday, Dec. 28, at People’s Community Church in Detroit.

From page A-1 oted, and ignorant presidential candidate to have ever lasted this long in modern memory, remains the leading Republican candidate — and not by just a hair. In 2008, we witnessed the election of the nation’s first African American president. In 2012 he was elected again by an even larger majority.

In 2016...? #4. Ben Carson Widely — and deservedly — revered as a brilliant neurosurgeon, born and raised in Detroit, Dr. Ben Carson began his career as a man who exemplified the heights of the American dream. But then he decided to run for president.

The fact that he decided to run on the Republican ticket wasn’t the problem, because that is certainly his right. Although more than 90 percent of African Americans identify as Democrats, there is certainly no law that says such loyal party affiliation is mandatory. No, what rubbed so many the wrong way was how aggressively Dr. Carson appeared to effectively — and aggressively — set fire to his own legacy by identifying with all the worst, far right elements and aspects of his party.

In fact, Dr. Carson has in some cases aligned himself with the same near-Nazi elements that blindly follow Trump, and who would no doubt drag him into a dark alley and stomp him underfoot as readily as they did that young black man who dared to protest at a recent

Trump rally. Self-hatred is such an ugly thing to behold. #5. University of Missouri football team goes on strike Refusing to turn a blind eye to the blatant racism rearing its head on their campus, the black players on the “Mizzou” powerhouse football team flexed an entirely different set of muscles when they issued an ultimatum — either the university’s president would step down (he had been identified as a primary source of black student complaints) or they wouldn’t play.

At all. Recognizing their monetary value as essentially “product,” Mizzou’s black football players made the decision to hit the university where it hurt.

The president stepped down.

Black student activism is alive and well. #6. The Walking Man In February of this year, the Detroit Free Press broke the story of James Robertson, a man who had walked 21 miles to his job in Rochester Hills — each way — for 10 years. Soon dubbed “The Walking Man,” Robertson’s story became a nationwide phenomenon. So much so that he was showered with enough money to move out of his apartment — and out of Detroit. Plus he bought himself a car. Many who were understandably inspired by this story pointed to Robertson as the true meaning of a good employee, dutifully appreciative

of his good job and willing to brave all evils to get there. The true story, of course, is that if metro Detroit had a modern transportation system like other big cities, maybe Robertson wouldn’t have had to do all that walking. Just a thought. #7. We lost Grace Lee Boggs and Ron Scott Two of the most committed, dedicated, celebrated, and renowned community activists/ revolutionaries/human beings (in the truest and most expansive meaning of the term) left this time and space in 2015.

Both were Detroiters, also in the best possible and most expansive meaning of the word.

Both exemplified everything there was to exemplify about the meaning of being a Detroit­ er. It is often said that certain folks who pass away can never be replaced. Sometimes that is true, sometimes it’s not. In the case of Grace Lee Boggs and Ron Scott, it is most certainly true. #8. Those Detroit demolitions...

My guess is that Fox reporter Charlie LeDuff probably didn’t get a gift from Mayor Mike Duggan this year unless it was ticking. It was LeDuff, of course, who made it his business to scream “foul” about the way in which Duggan was handling Detroit demolitions.

LeDuff claimed the mayor was selectively choosing certain hand-picked bidders who

charged exorbitant rates. Since that initial report, the News, Free Press, and other Detroit media have begun to pursue the story and now it seems there is small likelihood it will crawl away in a corner and die as Duggan no doubt wishes that it would. Duggan vehemently denies any wrongdoing and steadfastly maintains he has been working overtime to rid the city of the blight that has been plaguing Detroit for decades. More to come on this one for sure... #9. Teach the children Until the adults in charge begin to act their age and act like the children actually matter as much as they continue to insist they do, this will remain a Top 10 story. The DPS is failing the children. The EAA is failing the children. The charters are failing the children. The children deserve better. And don’t blame the teachers. #10. Islamophobia Guess how many incidents of domestic terrorism are committed by Muslims? Guess how many domestic terrorists are dark-skinned folk with really long beards. Now guess how many aren’t. If you don’t know the answer to these questions, but persist in blaming the Muslims for being terrorists simply because they are Muslims, you really do need to be quiet.

Happy New Year everyone.

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Dec. 30, 2015 – Jan. 5, 2016 Page A-5

Republican opposition to straight ticket voting equals opposition to Detroit voters

By Keith Owens

that heavily Democratic - and non-white - areas are much more likely to use straight ticket voting than Republican areas.

According to Rick Pluta of Michigan Radio, and co-host of It’s Just Politics, if Gov. Snyder signs the bill now on his desk, the following will happen:

You know the holiday season has seriously kicked in when the Republicans in the Michigan House come bearing bags of coal, telling you it’s chocolate.

On Wednesday night, in a blatant pre-2016 campaign season first strike attack against the Democrats, the Republican-controlled legislature voted to eliminate straight ticket voting.

Predictably, they said (trying desperately to maintain a straight face) that this was merely an attempt to encourage voters not to just blindly vote one way or the other, but to seriously study the candidates and the issues. By forcing them to vote for one candidate at a time, their stated belief is that this will somehow improve our democracy by transforming straight ticket voters into more knowledgeable and engaged voters.

■ It would eliminate the option that Michigan voters had to vote for candidates in one party by filling a single circle on the ballot.

■ It would provide money for local governments to buy more voting machines.

■ It would ensure that this legislation cannot be challenged via voter referendum.

■ Under the bill, voters would no longer be able to just check one box to vote straight Democrat or Republican. Voters would have to vote individually for each candidate.

Longtime political observer Jack Lessenberry says the following:

There’s a rather potent word for what they’re actually doing here, but this is a family newspaper, so use your imagination and see if you can read my mind. As in, “this is some straight up...”

“You expect politicians to do things to give their side partisan advantage, up to a point. Democrats would certainly draw

congressional and legislative district boundaries to help them win more seats, if they had a chance. That’s how the game is played “But here’s the really underhanded thing Republicans here are doing. They know voters don’t want to lose this right. Twice before, Republicans have outlawed straight ticket voting – and each time, citizens have overturned their action with a statewide ballot initiative, so Republicans are attaching an unnecessary token appropriation to this bill, because under the Michigan Constitution, that takes away voters’ ability to repeal any bill.

“That rule exists, by the way, to protect the budget process.

“Using it to stifle the people’s will is a clear perversion of the Constitution’s intent, and Meekhof and Robertson couldn’t care less.

“They are doing something else equally underhanded; the House passed straight ticket voting only under the condition that we tie it to a bill making it easier for voters to get absentee ballots as well.”

Right.

Keep in mind that this ‘gift’ is coming to you from the same beloved group of folks who are which led to numerous just dying to enshrine cynical comedy routines that wrong-headed Cit- mocking how corporaizen’s United Supreme tions are now considered Court decision - perhaps people. One man, one one of the worst and most vote. One corporation, harmful and damaging one much bigger vote to decisions this court ever smother that other pesky made - into Michigan law. vote.

But in case you forgot “As a result, super what that was all about, PACs, fueled with milthe Supreme Court over- lions in donations, have turned a ban on unlimited blossomed across the contributions by corpora- country to try to influtions and unions in 2010. ence elections,” wrote They said that this was a Kathleen Gray in the DeMama Rita_MichiganChronicle.12.15.15.pdf 1 12/8/15 violation of free speech, troit Free Press on Dec. 8.

Because it’s just not enough to make a mistake once and then leave it alone. Apparently these guys think good government amounts to pounding yourself in the head with a hammer over and over again just to make sure the old cranium is still firm.

So what does this mean for heavily Democratic (and heavily black) cities like Detroit? Well, the first thing it means 10:18 AM is that voters need to be

educated right quick and in a hurry that no roadblocks to the polls will be tolerated. If this means we have to stand in line longer next November, or mark a lot more boxes, then that’s what we’ll do because that’s how important 2016 is.

But the second, and more obvious, meaning of this new piece of legislation is that the Republicans are once again firing up the voter suppression machine. They know

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DOCTOR

By Dr. Carmen McIntyre Question: “What is a panic attack”?

Panic attacks are basically sudden attacks of fear. They may last from 10 to15 minutes or so. Symptoms associated with fear can be physical, such as shortness of breath, rapid and pounding heartbeats, sweating, trembling and/or having hot or cold flashes. They can also be psychological, such as thinking you will lose control or are about to die.

Panic disorder is when the panic attacks Dr. Carmen McIntyre are creating difficulty in functioning in your day-to-day life.

What sets panic attacks apart from other fear reactions is that they come on suddenly, often for no reason, and are limited in duration.

If you are afraid during an earthquake or when being robbed, this makes sense. Anyone would understand why you might be afraid, and the fear may go away once the situation is over.

If you have an unreasonable amount of fear only in specific circumstances, such as being around spiders, you have a phobia.

Panic attacks, however, can be very disabling because they seem uncontrollable.

What causes panic attacks? For many people, it is likely that there is an imbalance in the nervous system that makes people more prone to set off physical symptoms associated with fear, such as the rapid heart rate or temperature flashes.

Some people may also have chemical imbalances that trigger the fear reactions. For example, improper breathing can lead to poor oxygen exchange, which makes it easier to have a panic attack. There is also a psychological aspect to panic disorder. Many people have these physical symptoms, but not everyone is bothered by them. Some people worry about the physical sensations that they have. When they worry, they are afraid, and that may trigger more attacks.

Panic attacks may be treated with therapy, medications, or a combination of the two. In therapy, the patient learns relaxation techniques such as proper breathing, as well as controlling the distorted thoughts that he or she may have when the panic attack is occurring. For example, having a panic attack does not mean you are having a heart attack or dying.

Medications used to treat the underlying causes of panic attacks are often the same used for depression, such as Prozac (fluoxetine) or Zoloft (sertraline). Abruptly stopping these medications, or abruptly increasing the dosage, can cause a temporary imbalance which may trigger panic attacks.

Sacred Space Yoga Centre changing lives in Detroit

By Darlene House

it,” Campbell said.

She noted that yoga is now being accepted more by medical professionals.

Its benefits include assistance with managing addictions, anxiety, mental health, pain, respiratory problems and weight.

The Christian controversy

SPECIAL TO THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

If you think practicing yoga has to conflict with your religion, think again.

If you think there are not any faith-centered yoga venues in Detroit, it is time to discover a safe oasis within city limits.

Look no further than Sacred Space Yoga Centre (SSYC). It is located at 2930 E. Jefferson near downtown Detroit.

Since an April 2015 grand opening, attended by more than 100 community leaders and special guests, people have been benefiting from a variety of economically-priced classes/services.

“I wanted to bring yoga to a non-traditional audience by having it near neighborhoods for people not usually exposed to yoga,” explained SSYC owner Trina Campbell. The location provides handicapped accessibility, major bus route access and free parking in the back.

Throughout the week, approximately 20 different classes are available. As a new Silver Sneekers® Flex Center, SSYC is happy to offer Yoga for Seniors classes.

Couples Yoga is another popular option.

“We teach from a therapeutic and healing space,” said Campbell. Classes are based on “fruits of the Spirit” as reflected by their titles such as Faith, Gentleness, Joy, Love, Meekness and Peace.

Visionary’s yoga origin When Campbell’s daughter was a young figure skater, an additional source of income was needed to pay for training and related expenses. Campbell taught herself yoga and marketed it to figure skaters’ families. It helped them with desired flexibility plus added benefits of enhanced focus and centering energy.

After graduating from Michigan State University, Campbell spent more than

Trina Campbell

two decades working in corporate America before losing her job. She decided to pursue an entrepreneurial path involving physical fitness.

“I liked the way it felt after doing it,” Campbell said recalling her first yoga experience. She was already a fitness instructor but remained open to learning new ways to move bodies. Campbell taught classes at community centers and schools plus became certified in reflexology and massage.

Stretching beyond expectations Although the initial focus was on training to teach recreational yoga, Campbell soon recognized its added benefits. She enjoyed learning about the connection between mind, body and spirit. Learning to breathe properly, rest and enjoy the present helped her to grow personally and professionally.

“Think about how many people say they experience major life events, such as their wedding day, without enjoying

Campbell was not prepared for challenges she received about being Christian and practicing yoga. She was aware of yoga’s ties to India and Eastern culture. It wasn’t clear, however, why yoga had to conflict with her Western lifestyle and dreams. The answer turned out to be that it didn’t.

Campbell went in search of answers and found them during training at a secular center. They stressed that yoga was not a religion. During the initial training period, Campbell discovered the “Holy Yoga: Exercise for the Christian Body and Soul” book. She contacted the author and went out west to train with her.

“The major difference between first and second training was I learned how to integrate the word of God into it and how to meditate from Bible standpoint,” said Campbell.

“There are Christians practicing yoga incognito because they think it is a religion,” said Campbell. “It is important that people understand yoga is a spiritual practice and people of all religions can practice it.”

Campbell practices and teaches how to combine faith and yoga for a holistic approach promoting healthier body of Christ. She is Christian certified for teaching in churches. Campbell’s credentials also include being Exalt God Only Yoga founder and Center for Living Well co-division leader.

Overcoming challenges while learning

See YOGA page B-2

Occasionally, medications that prevent or mask symptoms of anxiety are used to treat panic attacks. These medications, however, can lead to addiction and other side effects, so they are best used only for a short time.

Dr. Carmen McIntyre is the chief medical officer at the Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority. She is committed to ensuring that the Authority meets the mental health needs of those with substance use disorders, children with serious emotional disturbance, mental illness, and persons with intellectual and/ or developmental disorders in Wayne County.

Tuskegee Airman Jefferson celebrates life – then and now

By Linda Moragne Lt. Col. Alexander Jefferson, USAF (Ret.) celebrated his 94th birthday, on Nov. 15, in Romulus, Michilgan, at the home of his niece, Mary (Cobb) Heath.

Close relatives including the Cobbs, Jeffersons, Whites and Coffees, as well as two of his 4th grade science students from Pattengill Elementary School, turned out in numbers to wish him well and enjoy great food.

Earlier that Sunday, the young children at Conant Avenue United Methodist Church, his home church since 1949, honored him with a special program dedicated to his service in the community.

Lt. Col. Jefferson celebrates 94 years with family.

Lt. Col. Jefferson, a Detroit native, graduated from Chadsey High

School and later Clark College in Atlanta, Georgia.

Jefferson went on to become a Tuskegee Airman fighter pilot, completing 18 1/2 missions during World War II. His plane was shot down over France, and he was held as a prisoner of war (POW) for nine months until the war ended in 1945.

After the war, Lt. Col. Jefferson taught in the Detroit Public Schools for several years as a science teacher and assistant principal.

His book, titled “Luft Gangster: Memoirs of a Second Class Hero,” published in 2005, recounts his experiences as a Tuskegee Airman and a POW. An award-winning documentary of the same title, based on his book, was completed in 2015.

community ‘A mind is a terrible thing to waste’: Our children deserve better

By Tom Watkins As the new year begins, I am reminded of the economic law that will kick in when it comes to Detroit Public Schools (DPS) — that iron rule in economics, Stein’s Law. Named after Herb Stein, former chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers during the Nixon era, it reads: “If something cannot go on forever, it will stop.”

The state has a moral and constitutional responsibility to fix what it is partially responsible for breaking.

The State of Michigan took control of DPS, placing an emergency manager in charge in 1999, which has proved to be an utter Tom Watkins failure. DPS’ financial woes have neither been fixed nor provided even a minimal education to the majority of Detroit students. It is hard to imagine that things could be worse than there were when Go. Engler took control of DPS in 1999, but they are.

The public schools in Detroit have been hallowed out over the years. Today there are not enough fingers on two hands to point to the various culprits responsible for the mess that exists. This is not to say there are not exceptional teachers, principals, classrooms and schools — there are many.

Yet, for far too many of our children, public education (both traditional, charter and EAA schools) these exist as small islands of excellence surrounded by a sea of despair.

Know this: a child without a decent education today becomes an adult without much of a future tomorrow. Our failure to educate the children of Detroit to even minimal standards, let alone world class standards, dooms them to a mediocre life at best and a collective disaster for us all at worse.

The problems with public education in Detroit are immense and will require real change to produce the results our children need and deserve. Detroit’s schools — public, charter and EAA — have been found to be among those with the worst test scores and graduation rates in the nation.

For far too many Detroit students, the educational collapse has been going on for decades. DPS enrollment has dropped by nearly 100,000 students in the past decade, which greatly contributes to the accumulation of more than $500 million in operating debt. That figure, combined with borrowing for buildings, puts the district at risk of fiscal collapse.

Such a collapse would greatly affect schools and local units of government as the state is constitutionally responsible to cover many debts and liabilities, a figure that could be in billions of dollars.

If you don’t care about what this means to these children, you’d better, if only for self-interest. Doomed, without the inability to read, write, calculate or navigate life, these very children will be coming to your place of business someday — as potential customers, employees or perhaps with nefarious ideas in mind. Let me assure you, these children simply don’t disappear.

Leadership and Supervision?

Article VIII, Section 3 of Michigan’s Constitution says the State Board of Education has responsibility as follows: “The State Board of Education has leadership and general supervision over all public (elementary and secondary) education... and shall advise the Legislature as to the financial requirements and connections therewith.”

Exactly where is the “leadership and supervision”?

Unless and until the governor and legislature fixes the historical messes surrounding the dysfunctional public educational system in Detroit, there are not enough resources in the entire treasury to fix what ails Detroit’s schools.

DPS has reached a tipping point which the governor and Legislature must address in early 2016. Every day of inaction prolongs the day where learning can begin. Proposed legislation, backed by Gov. Snyder, builds upon recommendations from a community coalition of Detroiters skillfully led by CEO’s from the Skillman Foundation’s Tonya Allen, and Walbridge’s John Rakolta.

The proposed goal is to address the financial crisis while offering Detroit parents access to quality schools regardless of the type of public school they want their children to attend.

TLC or Power, Control, Ideology, Politics and Adults?

The legislative package is said to include creating a new, traditional public school district — a Detroit Community School District — to teach students – with the current Detroit Public Schools district existing only to address the debt. All students, employees, contracts, employee benefits, and assets would move to the new district, to be governed by a seven-member board initially appointed by the governor and the Detroit mayor, eventually switching to elected members. An all-elected board would be in place by 2021.

Creating a Detroit Education Commission appointed by the mayor and governor would then engage the community to hire a chief education officer.

Driving academic achievement and increasing access to quality schools would require the chief education officer to work with the community, hold low-performing schools accountable, and reward and increase the number of high-performing schools.

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016

Page B-2

The black church and HIV Life coach and author Rev. William Francis, The Black Church & HIV advisory board member and ambassador, and CEO of Atlanta Faith in Action, Inc., moderated a discussion with seminar attendees. — Jason Flowers photo

By Jason Flowers Since 2013, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and Gilead Sciences, Inc. — a research-based biopharmaceutical company — have partnered and expanded their pilot initiative from 12 to 30 cities in a joint Clinton Global Commitment to Action harnessing the power of the black church to end HIV in black America.

The initiative recently convened in Detroit — one of 30 cities that make up nearly two-thirds of the nations HIV epidemic — for its Black Church & HIV: The Social Justice Imperative seminar training, a partnership with black faith leaders to create a movement encouraging communities to take action against the unequal impact HIV is having in black America.

“The NAACP has been working with the black church since the Civil Rights Movement, and this a movement as well,” said Rev. Keron Sadler, national manager of health programs for the NAACP. “HIV is a movement and we need as many pastors on board with us moving this movement forward. As we normalize testing, decrease stigma by dispelling the myths, and getting people into care because they know their status.”

In Detroit, the rate black males living with an HIV diagnosis is nearly six times that of white males and the rate of black females living with an HIV diagnosis is 13 times that of white females, according to the joint initiative.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 1.2 million people in the United States are living with HIV, yet nearly one in eight people living with HIV are unaware of their status.

Today, the HIV/AIDS epidemic demands that our faith leaders use their power and influence to confront this health disparity.

Sadler said this initiative has a three-point approach of training pastors on HIV as a social justice issue; securing formal resolutions from denominational leadership; and integrating HIV-focused coursework into required seminary curricula.

Rev. William Francis, The Black Church & HIV advisory board member and ambassador, moderated a discussion with attendees and shared his story of being diagnosed with HIV. Francis said on February 29, 2009, he was diagnosed HIV positive, but didn’t know what to do with this diagnosis. He shared that it wasn’t a conversation he had with his grandmother, in school, and certainly not in the church he grew up in.

“The community was talking about it, but it was pushed as a gay white man’s disease, so I never paid any attention to it,” Francis said. “I left the health department, and they told me I had to come back to the doctor 45 days later. But there was no support

in those 45 days. I can’t call on my grandmother, can’t call on my parents, I have no friends; I don’t know who to call. I don’t know anybody that’s HIV positive.”

Francis said he decided to go to church for prayer and support. When he was asked how he was doing, Francis said tears literally came to his eyes.

“My emotions were all over the place that day. The shame, the guilt, the stigma, self-stigma, the fear; all of that I couldn’t make any sense of it,” Francis said. “Two ministers came and hauled me off to a prayer room, literally leaving tracks in the carpet.

When I got in there, it took me an hour and 30 minutes to say that I was diagnosed HIV positive. And immediately, they jumped back from me.”

It was one of those churches, Francis said, that regardless to what you may have had they prayed it out with oil. But, that day, the oil couldn’t deliver him from being HIV, he said.

“As they jumped back, he (the minister) literally said that God had just spoke to him in a prophetic word and wanted to pray the gay out of me,” Francis said. “But I’m heterosexual man.”

It’s these types of stigmas the NAACP and Gilead Sciences, Inc. have partnered together to dispel. Over the next five years, the initiative aims to engage nearly 3,000 faith leaders to reach approximately 1.125 million people in the black community with messages about HIV. The seminar training was a Detroit faith leaders town hall meeting in partnership with the Council of Baptist Pastors of Detroit & Vicinity held December 17, 2015.

For more information please visit www.TheBlackChurchandHIV.org.

Contact Jason Flowers at jflowers@michronicle.com or at (313) 9635522.

Yoga life lessons “Yoga and staying prayerful saved my life,” stated Campbell. When an unexpected divorce brought her down, practicing ancient ways lifted her up.

“My friend and prayer partner told me to go to my mat,” Campbell recalled.

“There I could cry, pray or do whatever seemed right at the time.” That included the origins of her ongoing practice to use music that would be pleasing to God. After teaching yoga for more than 15 years, plus a lot of prayer and soul-searching, Campbell believed the time was right for a new business direction. The native Detroiter knew she wanted to find a location in the city limits of a place that was always home.

Building oasis in the city Campbell is excited about having a business focused on serving the entire community.

“Our goal is to give Chris-

From page B-1 tians a safe place to practice yoga and still honor their faith but people will find the same services they seek elsewhere,” said Campbell.

SSYC is structured to be more than just another yoga site. It also offers reflexology, stress relief painting, retreats and workshops.

SSYC’s quest to change lives is reflected in its Chat and Chew Saturdays with Ravinereginia Lawson. Participants discuss the healing and cleansing properties of whole foods and pure herbs.

“Props for Cops” teacher and firefighter discounts make yoga affordable for professionals working in stressful jobs. They can stop by during flexible hours. Doing so helps with balancing energy and adjusting mental focus. As a result, participants learn to create a calmer work environment.

There are also opportunities to learn how to teach yoga from a Christian perspective. SSYC provides continuing education and a

CCYL designation for existing teachers. By integrating faith, this training can significantly impact how yoga is taught to others.

Campbell is thrilled to announce a partner addition at SSYC site. It is Theresa O’Bryant of Genesis Therapeutic Massage Service. She believes setting up shop at SSYC will be mutually beneficial.

“My personal mission is to assist as many people as possible, to get the best out of each new day, which is a new beginning,” O’Bryant said.

Empowering purple wall Purple is a dominant color at SSYC. The Purple Wall provides a special opportunity to unite with SSYC in a membership pledge. It is “a place of support, encouragement as well as community.” The Purple Wall Pledge provides a source of motivation encouraging focus on self-improvement. It also solidifies a supportive relationship with SSYC to achieve significant goals.

The Purple Wall is visible proof of SSYC’s commitment to connect with neighborhood and community.

Life-altering products Look into SSYC’s life-altering products. They include exclusive tea blend for meditation, Sereni-Tea. It is made by Olive Seed for SSYC. There are also meditation CDs designed exclusively by Yatafari for SSYC. Start where you are That’s the advice Campbell gives when people are apprehensive about starting yoga. She acknowledges that some people bring their ego and want to do difficult poses but health issues make it a challenge to do advanced work. SSYC works with people at all levels including those who haven’t exercised for a while or are handicapped.

Any movement can make a difference.

The first SSYC class is free. For additional information about SSYC, visit www. sacredspaceyogadetroit. com or call 313.352.6788.

community community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Sept. 30 - Oct. 6, 2015 Page B-3 Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016 Page B-3

NOW - DECEMBER 31

2015 Toy Collection Drive

GROW AND EAT COMMUNITY SEED HARVESTING AND SAVING CLASS

The Gift of a Helping Hand Charitable Trust 11101 Morang Drive Detroit The Gift Of A Helping Hand Charitable Trust Toy Collection Drive has been providing new toys for thousands of needy babies, children and teens for the last 12 years, and our mission is to continue to assistWoodward them throughout as well as during Corridorthe in year Midtown the holiday ­season.

For more information call 313.418.9963.

Detroit’s newest nighttime festival. For two electrifying evenings, Midtown is enveloped in a sea of light as a number of artisits converge on Detroit to illuminate buildings and cityscapes using verious mediums that meld sci-fi technology with Victorian spectacle on a grand scale.

For more information visit www. dlectricity.com or call (313) 420-6000.

31 DECEMBER

Belle Isle Casino Detroit, MI

WOMAN 2 WOMAN AT KICK-THE CENTER IN DETROIT Belle Isle

Fun Run

7 p.m.

KICK-The Center 41 Burroughs St. Suite 109 Detroit

The Fun Run is a short, one mile route which starts Woman 2 Woman is a monthly program in front of the Belle Isle Casino, goes around the designed to create the bridge between Scott Fountain, and returns to the casino. It is open of women in order to allgenerations ages; however, to keepof thecolor; Fun Run “fun”tofor forge a solid sisterhood.

Sisterhoods that the children, we request that faster runners consider we can with and, be vulnerable entering the rely 5kmon, Runheal instead. among through conversation, activities and Visit www.belleislefunrun.com. building relationships. Cost: Free

12 p.m. - 2 p.m.

Detroit Market Garden 1850 Erskine Street Detroit

HALLOWE’EN IN Motown Countdown

GrowCadillac and Eat is a &program Square Campus designed Martius to equipDetroit residents of Detroit, Highland Park, and Hamtramck with the knowledge to indeor more information call 313.355.0413 The official VIP party of the Drop @ Campus Martius in the grand pendently grow, harvest, and prepare their celebration party pavilion at Cadillac Square.Entertainment, or visit www. motorcitynye.com. own food. Admission is $5 per class, free dancing, 4 hour premium Greenfield Village bar, midnight snack buffet and more. for Greening of Detroit members or partic20900 Oakwood Blvd. ipants in the Greening’s “Build A Garden” Dearborn Program.

Detroit People Mover

GREENFIELD VILLAGE

Long, windingHours paths lined with jack-oHoliday Advisory

lanterns; ghastly strangers lurking; withces

The Detroit Transportation Corporation has rewho’d like to People talk toMover’s you; aschedule headlessfor leased the Detroit horseman riding the streetsa.

Sounds the remainder of December:

For more information call Trish Hubbell at the Greening of Detroit (313) 285-2255 or visit www.greeningofdetroit.com.

wonderfully but Eve family friendly to Thursday, 12/24frightful, Christmas sure.

DPMbeCLOSED Cost: $16

Friday, 12/25 Christmas Day DPM CLOSED

For more information call (313) 982-

Thursday, 6001. 12/31 New Year’s Eve 2:00PM – 3:00AM Friday, 1/1/16 New Year’s Day – DPM CLOSED

The Detroit Transportation Corporation’s administrative office will be closed December 24-25 and December 31-January 1. Sales of People Mover passes will not be available at the administrative office or the SMART Sales Office, which is also closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Downtown Detroit’s complete calendar of events is available at www.ThePeopleMover.com.

Andiamo Restauarants New Year’s Eve Offerings Andiamo Ristorante/Detroit Riverfront 400 Renaissance Center Suite A-403 Detroit Ring in the new year with delicious handmade cuisine, live entertainment and good company.

For more information call 313.567.6700 or visit www.andiamoitalia.com/special-events.

For more information call (313) 7847121.

Get your weekly home delivery of the Chronicle!

Make your Today! flu shot Subscribe make a Call world of difference (313) 963-5522 Your immunization helps provide a lifesaving vaccine to a child in a developing country. www.michiganchronicle.com From July 1, 2015 to August 31, 2016, for every immunization administered, Walgreens will donate $0.18 to the United Nations Foundation, up to a maximum donation

A Real Times Media Newspaper 479 Ledyard, • Detroit, MI 48201

(313) 963-5522 e-mail:newsdesk@michronicle.com Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016

Page B-4

HIRAM E. JACKSON Publisher

Quote of the Week:

CATHY NEDD Associate Publisher

“Dissent is central to any democracy.

Bring it on.”

KEITH A. OWENS Senior Editor SAMUEL LOGAN Publisher 1933-2011

JOHN H. SENGSTACKE Chairman-Emeritus 1912-1997

— Harry Belafonte

LONGWORTH M. QUINN Publisher-Emeritus 1909-1989

Black families must focus on asset building

By Charlene Crowell NNPA COLUMNIST

As the wealthy few continue to prosper, the rest of the nation is caught in a financial tug-of-war between stagnant wages and a rising cost of living. In communities of color, chronic unemployment and underemployment and a host of other social ills are added burdens to an already challenging economy.

These and other disturbing trends were the focus of the recent Color of Wealth Summit, conceived and convened by a national research organization, the Insight Center for Community Economic Development and a Charlene Crowell solution-oriented social change nonprofit, the Center for Global Policy Solutions. The two-day conference engaged prominent thought leaders to propose solutions to the growing racial income and wealth divide that has come to characterize America’s economy.

According to Maya Rockeymoore, its president and CEO, “Most organizations and policy makers focus on improving income and income supports such as safety net programs. While this approach is vital, it is not enough to build economic security for vulnerable families over a lifetime. To achieve true security for vulnerable families, asset building must be part of the strategy.

“Through wealth, families can have the financial resilience they need to sustain themselves in the event of a job loss or illness. Wealth also gives families the resources to invest in their future and realize their dreams. A truly transformational economic security strategy should focus on both income and wealth.”

Recent research confirms how hard it is for families that lack adequate earnings, to make it from one payday to the next. While the idea of saving is valued, for too many consumers nothing is left once basic living expenses are met.

According to the most recent report of the Joint Economic Committee of Congress: • Median net worth in black households fell by more than 40 percent from 2007 to 2013. White households during this same period saw median net worth drop 26 percent; • Median weekly earnings of black college graduates working full-time and their white counterparts showed that the black grads’ annual earnings were $12,000 less; and • Overall, the black median earnings of $34,600, is nearly $24,000 less than the same measure for whites.

“The same groups of people who have historically been left behind are growing in number and population,” observed Angela Glover Blackwell, a summit participant and founder and CEO of PolicyLink. “It is critical that we support asset-building programs and policies that create and protect opportunities for all families to save and invest in themselves, their futures, and their communities.”

Historically, homeownership has been the gateway to building wealth and assets. Unfortunately, the nation’s foreclosure crisis altered wealth-building for millions. According to the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, nearly 14.8 million foreclosure notices were filed from January 1, 2007 to May 31, 2013.

By late 2014, according to the Census Bureau, only 42 percent of black families were homeowners — more than 22 percentage points lower than that of the nation (64 percent) and 30 percentage points lower than that of Whites (72 percent). The current homeownership level is the lowest since 1993.

By Marc H. Morial There have (recently) been two dozen anti-Muslim attacks in the United States, ranging from a cabdriver shot in Pittsburgh to the deliberate torching of a Somali restaurant in Grand Forks, N.D. The owner of a food market in Queens was beaten by a customer who vowed to “kill Muslims.”

Threats, vandalism and discrimination are rampant.

Donald Trump’s call to ban all Muslims from entering the country, even U.S. citizens, is

For Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-Mo.), a summit keynoter, the discussions provided a timely connection between his work in the House Financial Services Committee and the conference’s agenda.

“The collapse in home values during the Great Recession hit black households especially hard. At a time like this, we need more affordable housing and a stronger safety net,” said Cleaver.

“Both in the House Financial Services Committee and in the Congress as a whole, we have more work to do to increase opportunities for families around the country.”

According to Cleaver, FHA’s lowering of mortgage insurance premiums earlier this year, is one example of a government initiative that will bring consumers “closer to the keys of their own home.” An estimated 90,000-140,000 buyers will be assisted this year.

While most black and Latino homebuyers have had their mortgages underwritten by government-backed programs such as FHA, VA and USDA, the greater challenge has been access to private sector conventional mortgages that over the life of a loan are far cheaper than the government-backed offerings.

The annual Home Mortgage Disclosure Act report (HMDA), quantifies by race and ethnicity mortgage lending and denials for mortgage loans. For 2013, the most up-to-date report, the data clearly reveals that while conventional mortgage originations rose slightly from 2012 to 2013, nationwide black consumers, who are more than 13 percent of the population, received only 2.3 percent or 36,903 loans. In 2012, the same data point was even smaller, with only 26,500 such loans.

Earlier research by the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL), a summit co-sponsor, revealed that many homebuyers of color were steered into higher-cost, subprime loans — even when they qualified for cheaper ones. After analyzing 50,000 subprime loans, CRL concluded that blacks and Latinos were almost a third more likely to receive a high-priced loan than were Whites with the same credit scores.

Additionally, research by the Center for Community Capital at the University of North Carolina found that borrowers of color and low-wealth families who received safe mortgages that were fully-underwritten during the housing crisis saw their home equity appreciate by $23,000.

“Proving that when families receive responsible mortgage loans, they are able to build a financial safety net that they can access during challenging times,” said Nikitra Bailey, a CRL executive vice-president.

“There are a number of wealth gaps that are troubling,” said John A. Powell, director of the Haas Institute for a Fair and Inclusive Society at the University of California at Berkeley, “One is the gap between the very rich and everyone else. Another is the gap between people of color and their white counterparts.

What is not appreciated and needs to be explored is the relationship between these gaps.”

Woman of the year

By Julianne Malveaux Jannie Ligons is an Oklahoma City grandmother who left a friend’s house to drive home. She collided with Daniel Holtzclaw, the rogue police officer who seemed to think it was part of his duty to sexually abuse black women.

He raped them because he could. They did not accuse him because they feared they could not.

Some had criminal records – they had been involved with drugs or had other skirmishes with the law. They felt both vulnerable and violated, and they thought nobody would believe them.

At least 13 Julianne Malveaux women were violated, and they were only identified because one courageous woman, Jannie Ligons, took her complaint to the police. She had no criminal record and nothing to hide from. She simply had the harrowing experience of encountering a white (really half Japanese, but that’s another story) man with a badge, feelings of superior racial identity, and a penis.

According to many of the accounts of women who encountered Daniel he referred to his whiteness as he violated them. Many of the women had other matters with the law, and he intimidated them into silence.

In our nation’s sordid history, when black women spoke they found themselves denigrated or ignored. In 1944, Recy Taylor, a 24-year-old mother, was abducted as she walked form church with her friends. A car full of white men threatened her with a shotgun, then took her into an abandoned field and repeatedly raped her.

The men who raped Ms. Taylor said she welcomed the sex and they paid her.

They could have been arrested, but a complicit sheriff ignored the law. When an all-white jury heard the case, they failed to indict the six men who raped Recy Taylor. In 2011, Alabama offered Recy Taylor an apology for failing to properly manage the case. Justice delayed is justice denied.

There are too many black women, raped by white men, whose experiences are swallowed in the vacuum of history. There are some experiences that have been captured, though. Consider Betty Jean Owens, a Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) student, who was talking with three friends

when a group of white men, armed with shotguns and switchblades abducted her.

They admitted, as they were arrested, that they were looking for a black woman to rape, and made jokes about it. The horrible criminals might have escaped prosecution and gotten away with their crime had not a young white police intern organized a search party to find Owens. Had there been no protests or national attention, the rapists may have been acquitted.

They were convicted, but Betty Owens was further demeaned through a trial that questioned her virtue, and asserted that she didn’t fight hard enough (with a shotgun to her head). Her dress, they said, wasn’t torn enough to indicate a rape. Unexpectedly, the all-white jury found the rapists guilty, with life sentences. At least one of them was paroled to rape and kill again (and he did).

Those who defended Daniel Holtzclaw took a page from the historical playbook when they paraded the backgrounds of his rape victims before the all white jury.

They were on drugs. They had arrest warrants (sometimes for simple parking tickets). Well, someone who has dabbled with drugs can be raped; someone with outstanding warrants should not be victimized.

The women with police records may have been reluctant to come forward, but Jannie Ligons had no record and no warrants. She was a grandmother minding her business and her speaking up opened the door for others to speak. She reminded other women that they could stand up to injustice.

Too many black women have been forced into silence; those who speak up pay consequences. Jannie Ligons deserves to be acknowledged because she took a risk and may pay a price for outing a rouge police officer. He took advantage of women simply because he could. Jannie Ligons the self-described “wrong woman to stop” was willing to spotlight Holtzclaw’s abuse.

She is my woman of the year, and she deserves all acknowledgements. I am encouraging our African American organizations to lift this sister up, to give her high props, to give her every award that is available. She stands on the shoulders of Recy Taylor, Betty Owens and countless others. She has helped serve Mr. Holtzclaw a steaming plate of justice. She fought the fight and so must we.

In the words of Mari Evans, “Look on her and be renewed.”

The policy answer to that keen insight will determine whether this and future generations will be able to reasonably accomplish what our parents and forefathers did – a better quality of life.

“America will be a people-of-color nation by 2042, and addressing the racial wealth gap is necessary to ensure sustained economic growth for all Americans,” stated Blackwell.

Ever-widening wealth gaps are not a black, white or Latino problem. Nor can the dilemma become more fodder for partisan bickering. It is an American problem that deserves a response equal to its challenge.

Concluded Powell, “Our lives, our economy and our democracy are at risk.”

Jannie Ligons

Hateful rhetoric and actions breathtaking in its bigotry. To exclude any group based on religion or ethnicity is an anathema to American ideals. It not only violates our Constitution, but our shared sense of decency.

heeded by every candidate, and there can be no denying that such rhetoric has contributed to the atmosphere of hostility that leads to acts of violence.

We also abhor and condemn senseless acts of As far back as terrorism, which June the National Marc H. Morial are in themselves Urban League called upon all Presidential candi- their own insidious brand of dates to refrain from divisive hate-inspired violence. language and hate speech. It’s clear that call has not been

The violence and hostility are not limited to Muslims –

hate crimes motivated by religion, race and sexual orientation remain all-too common.

This hatred – and fear – is corrosive and cannot be tolerated.

Religious and racial bigotry are not core American values.

In fact, such bigotry is more than unpatriotic; experts agree that anti-Muslim rhetoric contributes to radicalization and recruitment by jihadist groups.

Politicians appealing to voters’ basest instincts is nothing new. But the level of vitriol may be unprecedented in modern American politics. Sadly, com-

parisons to the rise of Adolph Hitler are no longer hyperbolic in this case.

This ugliness must stop.

It’s dangerous not only for our Muslim brothers and sisters, but all people as well as our national security. We call on those engaged in such rhetoric to reconsider the consequences of their reckless spew.

We call upon all Americans, especially the presidential candidates, to denounce bigotry and work for greater understanding among cultures and peace.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016

Page B-5

Robert Elmore: Church deacon, civic leader dies at 94

By Ken Coleman Robert B. Elmore, a World War II veteran, longtime Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church trustee and Detroit civic leader, died on Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at age 94.

Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on August 9, 1921, Mr. Elmore was the eldest son of Daniel Dorsette Elmore and Bertha Solomon (Carroll) Elmore. He attended elementary, middle and high school in Newton Falls, Ohio, a small town nestled between Cleveland and Pittsburgh. He graduated at the top of his class and also learned to type well in high school, a skill that proved to be beneficial.

“When my supervisors found

out how well I could type, they decided not to send me to the front lines,” he often remembered.

and moved to Detroit. Their union produced five children: Diane, Beverly, Robert A., David and Eric. The couple joined Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church where Mr. Elmore served as a member, a deacon and a trustee.

As a member of Western Allied forces fighting Japan, Elmore worked in the field office and also drove trucks during World War II’s Burma Campaign. And although he was 8,000 miles from home, Mr. Elmore routinely sent his pay back to Newton Falls to help his sisters attend college.

Like many others in “The Greatest Generation,” Mr. Elmore used his GI benefits to gain a college education. He attended West Virginia State University, where he played drums in the marching band and rose to the position of drum major.

He also became a member of

He worked at the Army Tank Automotive Command in Warren for 35 years, starting out as a supply cataloger and advancing to automotive cataloger supervisor at the time of his retirement.

Robert B. Elmore Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity and graduated with honors.

While in college, Mr. Elmore met his future wife, Lillie Robertson. They married in 1949

He demonstrated his commitment to community service as a volunteer for the Boys Scouts of America, where he served as an area commissioner.

Mr. Elmore’s optimism and

sense of duty were reflected in his seamless recitation of his favorite Bible verse, Psalms 118:24: “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Mr. Elmore was preceded in death by wife, Lillie, and is survived by his sister, Bertha Newbern; his five children; 15 grandchildren as well as greatgrandchildren, godchildren and a host of otheer relatives and friends.

Robert B. Elmore’s homegoing service will be held on December 30 at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, 2080 West Grand Blvd. Family hour begins at 10 a.m. Funeral service begins at 11 a.m. Rev. Nathan Johnson is senior pastor.

Beating the holiday blues

By Joy Calloway

at work and in relationships.

While most of us are decorating Christmas trees, hitting the Black Friday sales and “decking the halls,” many of those around us are struggling with depression. The statistics on depression are no secret: an estimated 16 million U.S. adults had at least one major depressive episode in the past year, and 10.4 million of those were severely impaired because of their depression. (NIMH, 2012) Yet, depression, which can present in a variety of ways (e.g., anger, irritability, anxiety, general malaise and sadness), remains one of the most under-diagnosed illnesses in the United States.

What many of us forget while we are being jolly is that the holiday season is a tremendously difficult time for many people. In addition to the daily stressors of decorating, cooking, hosting out of town guests, and finding the perfect gift, there are also feelings of lack, insufficiency, grief, and loss.

In the African American community, depression is often misdiagnosed, and, due to cultural biases against seeking therapeutic help, is often left untreated, leading to physical manifestations such as headaches, digestive problems, exhaustion, fatigue, and muscle aches and joint pain. Untreated depression can also seriously impact one’s ability to function optimally

At a time when the media bombards us with reports of excessive shopping and spending, people without the means to take part in this perennial ritual may feel woefully inadequate and become stressed, anxious and depressed about their inability to shower their friends and family in the way that society celebrates.

Others of those around us are particularly stricken with the absence of loved ones. Regardless of when the loss took place, the seemingly endless family gatherings this time of year can wreak havoc on emotional stability. Still others in our community are unhappy

seek help. This can be difficult; many people in our society view depression — and other mental illness — very negatively.

This stigma prevents people from seeking out the mental health services and supports they need to begin their recovery process.

Joy Calloway about celebrating without a “significant other” to kiss under the mistletoe or at the stroke of midnight on the eve of a new year. Even those that are usually content may struggle with their emotions this time of year.

Create opportunities for those struggling with depression — or at risk of doing so — to get out of isolation, to socialize, and create new holiday memories with your friends and family, at your church, social club

or other organization sensitive to the needs of those who may be hurting this time of year.

Community-based organizations like New Center Community Services are available for those seeking help. We serve individuals who are experiencing both chronic (long-term, repeated episodes) and acute (short-term) emotional disturbances including stress, anxiety and depression, all of which can impair the ability to lead healthy and productive lives. We provide a range

of programs and services including counseling, stress management, medication evaluations, and socialization programs, which promote recovery focused self-management services.

Yes, eat, drink and be merry during this festive season. And be aware of those around you who might be struggling and need a helping hand.

Joy D. Calloway, MBA, MHSA, is president and CEO, New Center Community Services. www. newcentercmhs.org

There is much we can do to support those around us during this simultaneously celebratory and depressive time of year: Recognize and gently acknowledge the existence of depression in your loved ones; do not ignore the signs or be dismissive.

Encourage

them

to

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Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016

Photo courtesy of Model D Detroit

By Roz Edward In 2015 Detroit pulled off one of the biggest municipal comebacks in U.S. history, essentially rescuing the city from becoming a rust- belt ghost town, as so many so many naysayers predicted. City of Detroit officials, business leaders, economists and financial experts, and the emergency manager, Kevin Orr, in nothing short of a Herculean effort, accomplished what many said couldn’t be done, Detroit emerged from bankruptcy 19 months ahead of schedule, a feat federal chief judge Gerald Rosen said was nothing short of “miraculous.” So, while other cities flex their monetary muscles and boast about economic progress, when you put it in perspective, many of those developments pale in the light of Detroit coming out of the largest municipal bankruptcy in the nation’s history.

Michigan Chronicle’s

■ The Entrepreneurs of Color awarded its first four Detroit-based minority-owned small businesses to receive loans and lines of credits from the $6.5 million minority business investment program funded by the Detroit Development Fund, JPMorgan Chase & Co. and the Kellogg Foundation.

The four minority-owned businesses receiving the inaugural round of funding included Power, Lighting and Technical Services, Inc., Priceless Preservation’s Construction Co., LoveLifeSwagger (fashion retailer), and House of Pure Vin, which aims to become the wine retail destination in downtown Detroit. Currently, Detroit business people of color operate 32,000 small businesses in Detroit, making it the fourth largest U.S. city for the number of minority owned businesses.

And while construction cranes loom above dilapidated structures to replace eyesores with gleaming new buildings, and we complain about traffic jams from the M-1 rail development slowing down our daily commutes — although we secretly enjoy indulging in traffic complaints like our working counterparts in other cities — both are a sign of prosperity and a city on the come up.

To commemorate a few of Detroit’s business and economic milestones in 2015, we complied the following list: ■ Let’s start with the most recent achievement first, the Hardest Hit Fund, Don’t let the name mislead you.

The Hardest Hit City designation recently garnered $300 million in federally delegated funding to Detroit for blight removal and abandoned building demolition. U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow spearheaded the battle.

2015 Business Report

■ And then there’s the economic event that still has the financial world on its collective ear, and marveling about how Detroit evaded what appeared to be impending doom, to emerge from the largest financial bankruptcy in U.S. history. Not only did the city successfully meet all of the terms of the bankruptcy, I did it 19 months ahead of schedule, having exceeded the expectations of the court, the emergency financial manager and a slew of awestruck creditors. The resolution of the bankruptcy also attracted the attention of Fortune 500 companies prompting investors to make multimillion dollar investments in downtown Detroit.

■ Construction comes to downtown. As with any good story, not everything comes up daisies; there are going to be controversies. There is the old vs. the new debate, and pouring development dollars into trendy re-gentrified communities vs. long established neighborhoods. The downtown start-

ers remarkably solid contracts, with wage increases, bonuses, restoration of the right to strike, and the elimination of the two-tier wage structure. On a sad note; 2018 will see the end of production for the Ford Focus and C-Max in Michigan.

up and technology district paired with Midtown’s Shinola manufacturing have helped draw additional industries and funding on regional and national levels. But, we’re still hoping for a happy ending to the Detroit

neighborhood development strategy and story.

Speaking of happy endings, the downto-the-wire Ford and General Motors UAW contract negotiations, won work-

■ The M-1 Rail project, which has brought traffic to a crawl along Woodward Avenue, will be ready for operation by the summer of 2016. While the projects detractors complain that the streetcar rails service does not extend north of West Grand Boulevard, others are satisfies that it will be at least a partial solution to the parking shortage in the increasingly crowded areas. The streetcars will run curbside with the flow of traffic. They will also provide free Wi-Fi, bicycle storage, and climate control. The heavily secured streetcars and stations will also be easily accessible for people with disabilities. In addition, riders will be able to pay their fare through several forms of payment, including an interactive M-1 Rail phone app for tech-savvy commuters.

■ Medical marijuana has been a hotbed issue not only in Detroit, but in cities around the country for both its medicinal applications and its profit potential.

Just before the close of the year the City of Detroit enacted an ordinance allowing proposed Medical Marijuana Caregiver Centers to apply for required business licensing to distribute and cultivate medical marijuana in a commercial facility according to the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act of 2008. The ordinance takes effect on March 1, 2016. Any MMCC opened prior to obtaining all required City of

See Top 10 Business Report Page C-2

Best of leisure and entertainment Venues of 2015

By AJ Williams The resurgence of Detroit’s nightlife and entertainment revenues has been more than a subtle passing for the last few years, and 2015 has been the best in Detroit’s comeback to date. Here is the Detroit Top 10 2015.

TOP 10 Bar: Standby The bar located in the Belt Alley near the Z Garage will feature 45 original and modern classic cocktails curated by bartender Joe Robinson and a menu of booze-infused bar food (think gin-marinated olives, Campari cockles, and

venison).

TOP 10 Brunch Spot: Le Petit Zinc Opening this summer in Brush Park, the family-styled brunch spot suffered some issues with their initial location. However, some setbacks come with silver linings. Now located in TV Lounge, the brunch spot can now offer libations to go alongside their new offerings including Salmon Hash and Cinnamon Apples French Toast.

Hard drinks, low prices, pool tables and a random band on the black box stage from time to time.

Only rule…leave your pretention at the door.

TOP 10 Happy Hour: PV Lounge If Martini Mondays with $5 martinis and Wednesday Night $30 All You Can Eat Crab Legs were not enough, PV Lounge also offers a daily extended happy hour from 4-7 p.m. with drink and appetizer specials.

TOP 10 Dive Bar: Old Miami

TOP 10 Social Spot: Punch Bowl Social

The Old Miami was hip before Midtown Detroit was known as Midtown.

With ping pong, bowling, darts, arcade and private karaoke rooms,

Punch Bowl Social has made its way on the Detroit Burrows map as the go-to destination for all things fun.

TOP 10 Wine Bar: Vertical Wine Bar With a $5 Wine Pour Happy Hour, Duck Fat Fries and Surf and Turf “Sashimi,” Vertical Wine Bar is our only stop for wine and tapas yumminess in Detroit for 2015 TOP 10 Tapas Nosh: Wright & Co. Tapas lovers unite.

When the mood is right and light fare, and amazing cocktails are the theme of the night, then Wright & Co. is the spot

of the night. With scallion riddle chips to braised oxtails followed by a vodka giblet, your Friday night bar crawl may stop right here.

TOP 10 Whiskey Bar: Cornerstone Barrel House/Whiskey Disco Cornerstone Barrel House is a locally owned restaurant and whiskey bar that features fresh local food and is serving a variety of special bourbon and whiskey drinks, and the popular locale also hosts an underground whiskey bar. The Whiskey Disco features international and local electronic music artists

Wednesday-Saturday.

TOP 10 Lounge: Floods An oldie but goodie.

The iconic lounge offers soul food fare, live music to set the mood with drinks aside a live DJ to make sure your late nights end with early mornings.

TOP 10 Lunch/Dinner: Gold Cash Gold Who needs breakfast?

Who needs lunch? We do!

Gold Cash Gold has answered with a brunch for lunch Tuesday – Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 pm. Brined chicken and waffles, burgers and mimosas can cure any midday melancholia.

business

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016

Page C-2

Security Company finds success in D2D Michigan Chronicle Staff Reports

Persistence pays off: Detroit-based security company All Inclusive Security & Investigation is determined to protect the community in every way possible.

After attending many Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC) programs -- including D2D outreach sessions that connect suppliers with corporate buyers -- the company landed a contract to secure a local construction site and its business is continuing to grow.

All Inclusive Security & Investigation provides a wide variety of security solutions including armed and unarmed security guards, alarm and camera equipment, process services for legal matters, and investigative services. CEO Afford A. Coleman founded All Inclusive eight years ago, fulfilling his dream as a military veteran and former law enforcement officer to form a company to assist people and provide safety solutions.

“We want to be involved in the economic growth of the city by providing a

safe environment for local businesses, their patrons and residents,” Coleman said.

Clients of All Inclusive & Technology include The N’Namdi Center for Contemporary Art, Midtown Detroit Inc., Motown Montessori School, several churches in the city, A&M Machining LLC, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Midtown’s Urban Partnership Bank, and Roncelli Construction Inc. All Inclusive Security & Investigation was recently awarded both a Detroit small business certificate and a minority business certificate from DEGC. Its other certifications include the Michigan Department of Transportation business enterprise certificate and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs small business certificate.

Coleman finds that Detroit business collaboration is the key to the city’s success.

“Collaboration with other companies provides a win-win environment for not only the businesses but the community as well by contributing to overall economic growth of the city of Detroit,” he added.

Detroit catering company serves up locally sourced food Michigan Chronicle Staff Reports

Detroit’s local Culinary Associates corporate catering company is a hidden gem in southeastern Michigan. The company has been serving the community with locally sourced food for the past 11 years under the leadership of CEO Frankie Brooks.

“We are dedicated to providing locally sourced foods so we frequent the Eastern Market for many of our meat, poultry and fish products,” said Brooks. “From the various vendors at the Eastern Market we’ve become more educated on seasonal foods and what pairs well together.”

Culinary Associates also works with Greening of Detroit, an organization that brings together local farmers to provide in-season, fresh food and educate others on sustainable growth throughout urban communities.

“I’m from Detroit and I love this city. I want to be a part of the fabric that is the new Detroit ‘garment’ that’s being created,” said Brooks. “I want to make an impact in Detroit and motivate the urban kids in and around the city. That’s what led me to begin The Association League of SuperFriends.”

Bert Dearing – Monica Morgan photo

Top 10 Business Reports Detroit approvals will be operating illegally.

■ Detroit was named to the Top Ten Most Innovative Cities in America in 2015 by CNN Money alongside iconic American cityscapes including Chicago, Boston and New York City. Detroit was fifth in the ranking and “need” was cited as a primary motivator for the city’s innovative determination.

As a city deemed a national leader in “solving urban issues,” Detroit’s technology, infrastructure, job creation and sustainability efforts contribute to the well-deserved recognition.

■ And in other good news, Detroit is now home to the first and largest Christian-owned television network in the country, Impact Network. Founder Bishop Wayne T. Jackson, with the assistance of broadcast programming

The Association League of SuperFriends is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving Culinary Associates is lives through servant leadalso a member of Detroit ership, quality services Economic Growth Corand human kindness. It poration’s D2D program, believes that supporting Frankie Brooks through which it meets one another encourages and partners with other Detroit compa- individuals to reach their potential for nies. the greater good of mankind.

“Collaboration is key in Detroit,” said Culinary Associates has catered for Brooks. “Connecting with other local many clients including the Michigan businesses gives us a culture of net- Minority Supplier Development Counworking, relationships and friendships. cil, Detroit Regional Chamber, Universal Everyone benefits when we’re working Studios, Beyoncé, Coca-Cola and LIFT – towards one goal which is creating job Lightweight Innovations for Tomorrow. opportunities and hope in Detroit.”

The Michigan Chronicle in partnership with Talmer Bank and Trust, will kick off the new S.W.A.G. Awards in Detroit. S.W.A.G., which stands for Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness, is a scholarship program recognizing outstanding high school seniors who have demonstrated a commitment to community, integrity and service. Current students that are economically disadvantaged, live and attend school in Detroit, and are planning to attend college or a trade school are eligible to apply.

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY. 2015-2016 Michigan Chronicle and Talmer Bank and Trust S.W.A.G. Awards entry period starts at 12:00 AM ET on 10/5/15 and ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on 12/31/15. Open only to 12th graders who are 16 and older who are legal residents of the City of Detroit, MI who: (a) attend a public, charter, or private Detroit high school, (b) are economically disadvantaged (as defined in Section 2b of the complete Official Rules); (c) will graduate in spring 2016; (d) have at least a 2.5 grade point average (or equivalent); and (e) are in good community standing. Visit www.michronicleonline.com/swag-awards for entry instructions, Submission requirements, prizes and complete details. Only one (1) Submission per entrant. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Only one (1) Contest Submission per entrant. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. SPONSORS: The Michigan Chronicle and Talmer Bank and Trust.

From page C-1

veteran Terry Arnold, former president and CEO of Bell Broadcasting Company (WCHB and WJZZ), struck an unprecedented alliance with AT&T’s DIRECTV extends the networks reach expansive reach of 950 million households worldwide to an additional 20 million households.

■ And finally, Bert’s Warehouse in Eastern Market survived yet another attempt to acquire the property and shutter the doors to this 30-year bastion of Detroit music and culture. Bert Dearing, owner of the iconic house of blues and jazz narrowly escaped the auction block. The 33,327-square-foot building at 2727 Russell, where Bert’s has operated more 28 years, was sold at auction in July for nearly $2 million, and while many thought it was a done deal, the deal somehow fell through … and the band plays on.

business

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Opportunities are open for business owners who act quickly Michigan Chronicle Staff Reports

Deadlines are coming quickly for two very successful small business programs managed by Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC); chances for new contracts, new locations, or other direct assistance are at stake for Detroit-based businesses that act quickly. These programs reflect the high priority that the Mayor and DEGC have placed on creating economic opportunities for Detroiters and Detroit-based businesses throughout the city.

Motor City Match Round Three

–

Motor City Match offers a share of $500,000 in grant funding and technical assistance every three months. Applications for the third round of Motor City Match are due January 1, 2016, so time is very short. Small businesses that don’t earn

direct grants to fund expansion projects are still eligible for other forms of support, such as business planning services, help finding or designing new locations, and other technical support. Businesses are encouraged to re-apply when the next round opens, if they are not selected in the current round.

“Motor City Match is a program that’s truly unique to the city of Detroit,” said Rodrick T. Miller, CEO of DEGC. “No other city in the country has a program like this one to foster the local businesses that continue to drive Detroit’s recovering economy forward. An investment in local business is an investment in Detroit. That’s why this program was created and we are thrilled to see its early success.”

Application qualification

details, require-

ments and program guidelines are available at www.MotorCityMatch. com.

D2D Matchmaking Event D2D is a program that helps match Detroit-based businesses as buyers and suppliers.

One of its biggest events is scheduled for February 11, 2016, when at least 10 large Detroit purchasing organizations will be meeting one-on-one with up to 200 small businesses who could have a chance to bid later on more than $20 million of contracts with those buyers.

Detroit businesses can apply online for a one-on-one interview. Applications are now open through January 11, 2016. The selection will be based on the qualifications and the products or services specified in the 200 bidding opportunities the buyers are expected

to bring with them.

“It isn’t exactly speed dating, or a Shark Tank pitch, but it is a chance for small businesses to sit across the table and describe what they can do to a set of buyers who are committed to making purchases from other Detroit-based companies,” said Brian Watkins, program director for D2D. “With an more than $20 million in contracts on the table, these meetings are real opportunities to develop new relationships and new business.”

The free February 11, 2016 event will take place at Greektown Casino Hotel Conference Center. It is open to all Detroit-based businesses and will offer presentations, small business resource providers and networking opportunities – even if a company is not selected for a one-on-one interview. More information and applications for submissions are available at https://d2d.mybusinessmatches.com.

Entrepreneurs, current Detroit business owner or interested Detroit business owner should be sure to take advantage of these opportunities to get great exposure in the city.

Uncle P brings UHHA in 2016

By Princess Hayes Diarra “Uncle P” Collazo, often referred to as an Ambassador for Detroit, is an entertainment mogul in the making. He has worked in every aspect of the record and events industry. As an entertainment consultant, Uncle P under his SP Marketing & Promotions firm represent highly profile clients such as Live Nation, Olympia Entertainment and many others.

Uncle P has many outlets he built from the ground up, such as detroitrap.com (Michigan’s Biggest Website for Hip Hop) Beat Street, Urban Ambiance Radio and the Urban Hip Hop Awards.

Recently, Uncle P appeared on “What’s Good Detroit,” a local show that focuses on the positive aspects of what’s happening in Detroit. Uncle P is preparing for the second annual Underground Hip Hop Awards. In the upcoming awards show Uncle P will showcase some of Detroit’s most talented artists. When asked fans can expect for this year’s UHHA’s, Uncle P replied, “I’m trying to raise the bar in Detroit.”

Starting out as a DJ known as DJ Uncle P, he was excited to talk to Michigan Chronicle staff about the #salutetotheDJ’s portion of the show. “By heart, I’m a DJ so I’m really excited about the special tribute to the DJ’s in this year’s show. I have three of my favorite DJ’s that I handpicked.

Diarra “Uncle P” Collazo Don Q, who you hear on WJLB quite frequently, Dj Los and P-Dog,the turntable bully who will display their deejaying skills to the audience,” says Uncle P.

for 2016. We have a DJ Conference coming up.

We will be dropping a mix tape soon and were getting ready to launch the Street Hitta’s Tour” says Blast.

FM98 WJLB’s DJ Bigg Dawg Blast will host this year’s UHHA’s. Blast has been a master one the ones and twos for over 20 years and is approaching his 15-year anniversary at WJLB. He is also a part of the Street Hitta DJ’s, which is an organization of DJ’s, founded by Blast in November of 2015.

He is also founder and former president of the legendary Conglomerate DJ’s, which Uncle P has been a member of.

The Underground Hip Hop Awards & Midwest Honors Awards presented by UHHA & Midwest Honors takes place Sunday, Jan. 3, 2016 at Saint Andrews Hall. Doors open at 5 p.m. There will also be events leading up to the Underground Hip Hop Awards. Saturday, Jan. 2, 2016 “BE YOUR OWN BOSS” Music Conference takes place at Hazel’s Place Lounge.

Doors open at 11am. The Midwest Monsters Showcase & UHHA Pre-Awards Show will be held at the Bullfrog Bar & Grill in Redford, MI. Doors open at 9 p.m. Make sure you come out and support Uncle P.

Although Blast was a presenter at the 2014 UHHA, Blast is excited to host again and to be a part of the award show in that capacity. “This award show is a kick off for all of the great things that I, as well as Street Hitta DJ’s have in store

For more information on the event visit detroitrap.com.

Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016 Page C-3

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Page C-4 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016

Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Page C-5

Page C-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016

m W

e e

of en xcellence of omen xcellence Friday, March 11, 2015

The Michigan Chronicle is now

Cobo Center — Grand Ballroom

accepting nominations for the

1 Washington Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226

2016 Men and Women of Excellence awards.

NOMINATION FORM For the past eight and nine

Name of Nominee

years, the Michigan Chronicle

Age

Title/Position

has recognized local African American men and women

Company/Affiliation

who continue to break the

Years in Industry

mold and affect change in their professions and community.

NOMINEE CONTACT INFORMATION

These men and women are visionaries in their given fields

Address

and inspire those around them

City/State/Zip

to go beyond the norm and strive for the exceptional. They

Day Phone

are entrepreneurs, community

Fax

leaders, fathers, mothers,

Evening Phone

Email

husbands, wives and inspirers.

Local African American executive or business owner.

Proven success within his profession/industry.

This year to commemorate

Positive role model whose contributions encourage others.

our 80th year anniversary we

Active in community service or organizational involvement.

will join 50 men and women to the exclusive society of

QUESTIONS TO BE COMPLETED

800 professionals who have previously received this

Describe the specific accomplishments that demonstrate the nominee’s

distinction.

professional excellence.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE:

January 22, 2016 5 p.m.

Describe the nominee’s community service activity or organizational

Submit online: www.michiganchronicle.com

involvement.

Submit via email: events@realtimesmedia.com.

Submit by mail: Michigan Chronicle MOE/WOE Nomination 479 Ledyard St. Detroit, MI 48201

How has the nominee mentored others?

(313) 963-5522

NOMINATOR’S CONTACT INFORMATION Name Title Firm/Organization Address City/State/Zip Day Phone

Evening Phone

Fax Email

#MOEWOE2016

@MichiganChronicle

www.MichiganChronicle.com

@michronicle

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SECTION D

Dec. 30, 2015 – Jan. 5, 2016

michiganchronicle.com

Reflections

By Steve Holsey

Fences mended…

20 years later Well, better late than never. Last week, actress Countess Vaughn (“The Parkers”) took to social media to settle things with Brandy, with whom she co-starred on the latter’s TV show, “Moesha,” that ran from 1996 to 2001.

“I apologize for anything negative I’ve said to you,” Vaughn said, adding, “I’ve grown.”

Vaughn was extremely popular — and funny — on “Moesha” as Moesha Mitchell’s best friend, Kimberly Parker. And it’s true that she overshadowed the star, but to blatantly say she was the reason so many people watched the show was wrong.

Countess Vaughn

The “Empire” cast: Jussie Smollett (left), Bryshere Gray, Terrence Howard,Taraji P. Henson and Trai Byers.

Brandy Norwood

In a 1998 interview, Brandy said, “She called me a bitch to my face.”

Nevertheless, and fortunately, she accepted Vaughn’s apology. Being older (usually) brings maturity. Vaughn is 37 and Brandy Norwood will be 37 in February.

It’s always a problem when someone else in the cast of a TV show becomes more popular than the star. The same thing happened with “227.” Marla Gibbs was the star, but Jackée Harry was wildly popular (and hilarious) as sexy neighbor Sandra Clark.

Harry said that when she won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, the first African American to do so, no one from the cast called to congratulate her.

Jackée Harry

ONE MARRIAGE that I thought was “forever” was that of Anita Baker and Walter Bridgforth.

They just seemed so right. She even once said she got goose bumps whenever Smokey Robinson would sing the words, “As we grow older, no need to fear, when you need Anita Baker me I’ll be here,” from the hit Smokey Robinson & the Miracles song “More Love.”

A look back

By Steve Holsey

Twenty-fifteen could not be described as special, but a number of interesting things happened.

One of the more exciting events was the return of Janet Jackson.

“Return” is the operative word because the talented lady had been under the radar for a substantial number of years. Some speculated that it had something to do with her marriage in 2012 to Wissam Al Mana, the wealthy businessman from Qatar.

But at long last a new album by a revitalized Janet Jackson was released, appropriately titled “Unbreakable.” It shot to No. 1 and continues to be a top seller. Among other things, it proved Wendy Williams wrong. The gossip queen said Jackson couldn’t compete with Beyoncé, Rihanna, Taylor Swift, et al.

Meanwhile, her megastar, iconic brother, Michael Jackson, continued to make history even though he left us in 2009. “Thriller” became the first album in history to be certified 30x Platinum by the Re-

Patti LaBelle with James Wright Chanel.

See 2015 Page D-2

I guess that comedian was right: “It used to be until death do us part. Now it’s ‘for as long as we both think it’s a good idea.’” Bridgforth and Baker were married for 19 years.

She has filed legal documents in Los Angeles (where she apparently now lives) to officially drop his last name. Since they divorced in 2008, it seems odd that she waited so long to take such action.

Well, no more “sweet love” or “giving you the best that I got.”

FANTASIA sounded and looked great on the Frank Sinatra celebration special that aired on PBS. She didn’t do any of that screaming that always throws a monkey wrench into the presentation of her beautiful voice.

She does it a lot more when singing for black audiences.

Regina King Shaun Robinson

Fantasia sang “Learning the Blues” and “On the Sunny Side of the Street,” and even did some slick, sophisticated dance moves. That kind of versatility is to be admired.

R. Kelly made himself look bad when he abruptly ended an interview on a Huffington Post program because he didn’t like some of the questions. Considering the fact that he faced child pornography charges not so long ago (though he was miraculously acquitted), Kelly should expect certain lines of questioning.

It’s still amazes me that he could deny that it was him with that underage girl in the sex video and pictures when it clearly

Fantasia

See Reflections Page D-2

Vanessa Williams and Jim Skrip.

B.B. King

Janet Jackson

entertainment

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

MOTOR CITY ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR

Choir, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, Feb. 11. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino. com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

BOBBY BROWN, Tank, Mint Condition, 112, Masonic Temple, Feb. 12. Tickets sold at the Masonic Temple box office.

PEABO BRYSON, Andiamo Celebrity Showroom, Feb. 14. For ticket information, call 586.268.3200 or visit andiamoshowroom.com.

KATT WILLIAMS, Joe Louis Arena, Feb. 13. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

FLOETRY, Fox Theatre, Feb. 14. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

HOWARD HEWETT, Alexander O’Neal, Al Hudson & One Way, Cherrelle, SOS Band, Music Hall, Dec. 31. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

R. KELLY, Fox Theatre, Dec. 31. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

PATTI LABELLE, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, Jan. 14. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

MARTIN LAWRENCE, Fox Theatre, Jan. 8. Tickets sold

Bobby Brown

R. Kelly

at Ticketmaster locations.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino. com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

PIECES OF A DREAM, Chante Moore, Andiamo Celebrity Showroom, Feb. 13.

For ticket information, call 586.268.3200 or visit andiamoshowroom.com.

SESAME STREET Live, Fox Theatre, Jan. 20-Feb. 7. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

“SMOKEY JOE’S Café,” stage musical, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, Feb. 25-28.

Dec. 30, 2015 – Jan. 5, 2016 Page D-2

Week’s Best

LOTTERY

P I CK S

163 248 193 475 245 105 174 769 554 302 336 257 2-3-17-28-27-39 1504 1128

STYLISTICS, DENIECE WILLIAMS, Andiamo Celebrity Showroom, Jan. 23. For ticket information, call 586.268.3200 or visit andiamoshowroom. com.

AVERY SUNSHINE, Vivian Green, Andiamo Celebrity Showroom, Jan. 30. For ticket information, call 586.268.3200 or visit andiamoshowroom. com.

WHISPERS, Family of Faith

2015

From page D-1

cording Industry Association of America in recognition of reaching the 30 million sales mark.

Scandal greatly interfered with the life and career of one of the greatest stars of all time, Bill Cosby, something he will always be, regardless.

BILL WITHERS was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The singer, songwriter, guitarist deserved the honor, having given the world classics like “Lean on Me,” “Lovely Day” and “Ain’t No Sunshine.”

It is said that records were made to be broken.

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” took in an amazing $238 million in its first weekend, the largest weekend box office figures for any movie in U.S. history.

After an impressive 16-year run as co-host on "Access Hollywood," Detroit’s own Shaun Robinson announced that she had decided to leave the show to pursue other endeavors. “It’s been an incredible ride,” she said.

“I’m so blessed.”

In the world of relationships, Halle Berry and actor Olivier Martinez decided to separate. Berry just seems to be unlucky in marriages and relationships. Her marriages to David Justice and Eric Benét failed, as did her relationship with model Gabriel Aubrey, the father of her daughter.

IN HAPPIER news, Vanessa Williams walked down the aisle with Jim Skrip. He is in real estate and used to be an accountant. And Tina Knowles, fashion designer and mother of Beyoncé, and actor Richard Lawson were married.

Famed songwriter/ producers Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier and Eddie Holland received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. They wrote

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” classics such as “Reach Out I’ll be There,” “You Can’t Hurry Love,” “Heat Wave,” “Baby I Need Your Loving,” “How Sweet it Is (To be Loved by You)” and “Stop! In the Name of Love.”

The hottest new television show was “Empire” starring Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard as Cookie Lyon and Lucius Lyon. The breakout new star was Jussie Smollett as their son, Jamal Lyon, who happens to be gay.

The show’s co-creator wanted the black community to face the fact that many people are gay, that it’s not a choice, and that there is nothing “wrong” with it.

BAD NEWS for brothers Charlie Wilson, formerly of the Gap Band, and group founder Ronnie Wilson. The latter wants to use the Gap Band name to re-launch the group, but Charlie has thrown up legal roadblocks, so Ronnie is suing.

The announcement was made that next season will be the last for the long-running “American Idol,” the show responsible for launching the careers of Fantasia, Jennifer Hudson, Carrie Underwood and so many others.

The super talented Regina King won a Primetime Emmy Award for her work on “American Crime,” in the Outstand-

ing Actress in a Limited Series category. And Denzel Washington was chosen to receive the Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award, presented to people who have “made an incredible impact on the world of entertainment.”

WE HAD to say farewell to a number of stars, among them B.B. King, Percy Sledge, Cynthia Robinson (trumpeter from Sly & the Family Stone), Lesley Gore, William Guest (of Gladys Knight & the Pips), Ben E. King, Marlene Barrow (from Motown’s foremost backup singers, the Andantes) and Bobbi Kristina Brown.

The oddest news of the year was Bruce Jenner transforming himself into Caitlyn Jennings.

Viola Davis became the first African American to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama, for her work on “How to Get Away with Murder.”

Will Smith announced that when the time is right, he will probably go into politics.

Patti LaBelle’s sweet potato pies flew out of stores, and it had much to do with a funny and outrageous video review that went viral, featuring James Wright Chanel whose life has changed as a result. At least for now, he is a “celebrity.”

Reflections was. Maybe his inspirational smash “I Believe I Can Fly” should be altered to “I Believe I Can Lie.” CHRIS BROWN was right on target when he said recently that it is “not his job” to be anyone’s role model. No entertainer should be set up as a role model, or feel compelled to present themselves as one. They are flawed human beings, as we all are, and are going to do what they do. Role models should be closer to home.

And kudos to Brown for donating a dollar from every copy sold of his new “Royalty” album to a children’s hospital.

That means the hospital will receive of a minimum of $500,000.

In the new year it would be nice to hear less about the Kardashians and Nicki Minaj, but that is not likely to happen.

BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW…that the Jackson 5 had a (very) mild hit single a year before they were signed by Motown

INVITES YOU AND A GUEST TO A SPECIAL ADVANCE SCREENING

From page D-1 — “Big Boy” on the Steeltown label.

MEMORIES: “Deep in the Night” (Linda Hopkins), “Boogie Fever” (the Sylvers), “Hold On (To Your Dreams)” (Wee Gee), “Love Machine” (the Miracles), “Be My Baby” (the Ronettes), “Kiss and Say Goodbye” (the Manhattans), “How Will I Know?” (Whitney Houston), “Real Love: (Mary J. Blige), “Low Rider” (War), “Computer Love” (Zapp).

BLESSSINGS to Clifton A. Tuggle, Kelvyn Ventour, Carol Smith Dixon, Mary Grace Wilbert, Diane Perkins, Lois Reeves, Charles Rudolph, Eric Pointer, Toya Hankins and Brenda Peek.

WORDS OF THE WEEK, from Brad Pitt: “All I know is what feels right.

What’s important is being honest about who you are.”

Let the music play!

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

To enter, send an email to detroitmovies@gmail.com with the subject line RIDE ALONG 2/Michigan Chronicle Thirty names will be drawn at random to receive a complimentary ticket (admits 2) to the screening on Tuesday, January 12 at the MJR Troy.

While supplies last. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Limit one pass per person. Pass admits two (2). Arrive early as seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.

RIDE ALONG 2 has been rated PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned – Some Material May Be Inappropriate for Children Under 13) for sequences of violence, sexual content, language and some drug material.

IN THEATERS JANUARY 15 WWW.RIDEALONG.COM

entertainment

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Dec. 30, 2015 – Jan. 5, 2016 Page D-3

FAMILY FEATURES

W

hen game day arrives and friends and family are gathered around the big screen to cheer your team to victory, the only thing missing is some great grub to make the celebration complete.

Putting together an all-star spread is actually easier than you may think. Simple recipes featuring high-quality ingredients make it possible to serve up big flavor without a lot of fuss. Follow these tips to score a game day menu that will let your guests enjoy themselves to the fullest.

Create a DIY pizza station.

Prepare dough ahead of time or purchase individual serving size crusts and invite guests to make their own personal pizzas.

Provide an array of fresh veggies, meats and herbs for endless combinations. Don’t forget plenty of quality cheese, and for a special twist, add some unexpected flavors, such as Jarlsberg Brand Cheese. Best known as a classic wedge, this nutty, mild cheese is also wonderful shredded for a uniquely delicious pizza flavor. Get guests started with this Sausage, Mushroom and Herb Pizza and then invite them to get creative on their own.

Top it off right.

No game day party is complete without chips and dip. Take your nachos to another level with premium toppings such these Barbecue Chicken Nachos. Other upgraded topping options: grilled steak or chicken, grilled corn and onions, a variety of flavorful cheeses, homemade guacamole, diced fresh veggies, seasoned olives and spices, such as Cajun or Caribbean jerk.

Bring the heat.

Spice things up with peppers as an added ingredient to other treats like pizza and nachos, or make the pepper the star, as with these Jalapeno Poppers, which blend the heat of a whole jalapeno balanced by the distinctive flavors of goat, Jarlsberg and Parmesan cheeses.

Find more game day recipes at jarlsberg.com.

Jalapeno Poppers Makes: 16 16 whole jalapeno peppers, rinsed and drained 2 logs (4 ounces each) fresh goat cheese 1 cup shredded Jarlsberg Cheese 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup diced green onion (scallions) dash of hot sauce cilantro leaves mini hot red peppers (optional) Using small sharp knife, cut slit down one side of each pepper.

Leave stem intact and remove seeds and veins.

In bowl, mash all cheeses, onion and hot sauce. Divide among peppers, stuffing each generously.

Refrigerate. (Note: Recipe can be made ahead to this point.)

Arrange peppers in heavy aluminum foil packet. Grill 8-10 minutes, or until cheese begins to melt. Garnish with cilantro and, if desired, hot red peppers.

Cheese and Mushroom Pizza

Barbecue Chicken Nachos

Makes: 1 pizza 1 premade pizza dough (14-16 ounces) 5 tablespoons tomato sauce 2 diced Roma tomatoes 8 ounces shredded Jarlsberg Cheese 2 ounces grated Parmesan cheese 8-10 sliced mushrooms 2 teaspoons oregano arugula (optional) Heat oven to 425 F. Follow premade pizza dough instructions on package.

Spread thin layer of tomato sauce and fresh tomatoes on uncooked pizza dough, sprinkle with cheeses, top with mushrooms and finish with oregano.

Bake pizza in oven for 1520 minutes, or until golden brown. Garnish with arugula, if desired.

Makes: 1 large serving 1 rotisserie chicken 1 cup barbecue sauce nacho chips 1 cup shredded Jarlsberg Cheese 1/4 cup chopped green onion sour cream (optional) Heat oven to 350 F. Pull white meat off rotisserie chicken and place in mixing bowl.

Add barbecue sauce to pulled chicken and gently mix together.

Scatter nacho chips on oven-safe dish and place pulled chicken on top.

Shred cheese with grater and coat top of chicken.

Place in oven for approximately 10 minutes. Sprinkle green onion on top and serve with sour cream, if desired.

PICK A PARTY BITE

Finger foods make it easy for your fellow fans to quickly grab a snack between plays and save the serious grub for a longer break in the action.

Tide them over until halftime with these bite-site appetizers.

For a little extra fun, use toothpicks bearing the mascot or signature color of your favorite team.

Jarlsberg Cheese salami green grape toothpick Cut cheese and salami into bite-size cubes. Thread ingredients on toothpicks, varying the order and mixing and matching ingredients for different flavor combinations.

 Sensible Sauces for a Healthy New Year 

Creamy Tomato Ranch Pappardelle with Caramelized Onions Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 45 minutes Serves: 4-6 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil 4 medium yellow onions, sliced 1 container (10 ounces) Sabra ­Farmer’s Ranch Greek ­Yogurt Dip 1/2 can peeled tomatoes ­ (7 ounces) 1 pound pappardelle parsley

In large skillet over medium-high heat, warm olive oil. Add onions; reduce heat to medium and cook until caramelized, about 45 minutes, stirring frequently. Place Greek yogurt dip and tomatoes in food processor and process until fully incorporated. Set aside.

During last 10 minutes of onions cooking, bring large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pappardelle and cook until al dente according to package directions (about 8-9 minutes).

Drain pasta then place back in pot. Immediately add tomato sauce mixture to pot and toss until pasta is coated. Transfer to serving dish, top with caramelized onions and garnish with parsley.

(Family Features) Sacrificing some of your favorite foods doesn’t have to be part of your New Year, new you strategy. In many dishes, it’s the sauces that pack on the calories you’re trying to avoid. Instead of ditching those dishes completely, look for swaps that let you enjoy delicious, better-for-you dinners.

Pasta is notoriously a diet danger zone, but dressing up the noodles with plenty of flavorful ingredients and switching out dense, high-calorie sauces for tasty substitutes will let you keep enjoying savory pasta dishes while you work toward a healthier lifestyle.

Even creamy pasta recipes are possible with the right substitutions. In this Creamy Tomato Ranch Pappardelle with Caramelized Onions recipe, thick cut pappardelle noodles are tossed in a creamy tomato ranch sauce made with Sabra’s Farmer’s Ranch Greek Yogurt Dip for a healthier version of a decadent dish. Or for a delicious dish with a spicy kick, try this Spicy Chipotle Hummus Pasta, which gets its rich and creamy flavor from swapping traditional pasta sauce for Sabra’s Chipotle Hummus.

Find more creative ideas to swap your way to healthy eating at sabra.com.

Spicy Chipotle Hummus Pasta

Prep time: 40 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes Serves: 6

1 pound penne pasta 1 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon oregano 1/2 teaspoon thyme 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 onion (about 1 cup), diced 1 red bell pepper, diced 1/2 cup chicken stock 1 package Sabra Spicy Chipotle Hummus 1 bunch Swiss chard (about 6 cups), chopped Bring large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions.

Drain. Meanwhile in small bowl, mix paprika, oregano, thyme and salt. Rub spice mixture over chicken breasts.

In large saute pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and cut into bite-sized pieces. Turn burner to low and return pan to stove. Sweat garlic and onions for 5 minutes, or until softened. Turn heat to medium and add red bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until soft. Slowly stir in chicken stock and hummus to form a creamy sauce. Add Swiss chard. Cover and cook until wilted, 2-3 minutes. Stir in drained pasta and cooked chicken.

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE ANNOUNCEMENTS

PERSONAL SERVICES MRS. LINN

BORN GIFTED READER The 7th Daughter without asking you a single word. I will tell you what you want to know. Tell your present, past and future. Tell you who your friends and enemies are.

Why you’re so unlucky. If your loved one is true or false.I will advise you all problems of life, such as love, marriage, business and health, etc. Why suffer, you can be free from all troubles. I guarantee Sucess where others failed. I am superior to any other reader you have seen.

Don’t let distance keep you away from Health and Happiness. Hrs. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Daily and Sunday.

No Mail Answered 2742 Monroe St., Toledo, Ohio 1-419-248-2145 1-419-973-9058

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LOVE HEALTH ETC. MONEY IS HERE HELP Blessed Be! I WILL TELL YOU EVERYTHING WITHOUT YOU TELLING ME ANYTHING!

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REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

STEEL BUILDINGS

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

PIONEER POLE BUILDINGS

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFPs for SMART Wayne Terminal Parking Lot Concrete Reconstruction, Stage 2, 3, 4, and 5 Control No. 16-1971.

RFP forms may be obtained beginning on December 28, 2015 from www.mitn.info.

RFPs are due by 3:00 PM ET, February 08, 2016.

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFPs for WIDE AREA NETWORK (WAN) Service For 5 SMART locations for three (3) Years with two (2) - one (1) Year Options , Control No. 16-1949. RFP forms may be obtained beginning on August 28, 2015 from www.mitn.info. RFPs are due by 3:00 PM ET, February 15, 2016.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

NOTICE OF OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR DETROIT PREP Open enrollment online at www.detroitprep.org 8a-6p M-F, 1st Sat/Month from January 4th until January 31st, 2016 7000 W Outer Dr., Detroit, MI, 48235

The Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan (RTA) has issued Request for Proposal #2016-001: Audit Services Electronic copies of proposals must be submitted with the RFP title and number referenced in the subject line to Ms. Tiffany J. Gunter at tgunter@rtamichigan.org by 4:00 PM EST on Friday, January 22, 2016.

The RFP with specific instructions is available on the RTA’s website at www.rtamichigan.org or by calling Information Services at (313) 402-1020.

The RTA adheres to all DBE guidelines.

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Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016

If a lottery is necessary, it will occur at 6pm February 11th by a 3rd party at the above address.

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HELP WANTED Seeking

DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYER RELATIONS – SBA AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Career Services

Responsible for overall administration, supervision of personnel and services, strategic planning, employer engagement programs, and policies related to the delivery of recruitment services that connect students and graduates with organizations hiring for part-time jobs, internships, cooperative education and full-time professional employment. Solicit local, regional and national employers to develop recruiting strategies and partnership programs to benefit career advancement of students and alumni.

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Higher Education, Business, Human Resources or related education or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience. Minimum of seven years’ experience in corporate relations or direct experience in development and supervision of an internship or cooperative education program. Refer to online posting for additional minimum requirements. This is a regular full-time position with a salary up to the high $60s, compensation commensurate with education and experience.

First consideration will be given to those who apply by January 14, 2016.

Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

10 Tips to Stick with Your New Year’s Weight Loss Resolutions (StatePoint) Millions of Americans will make the resolution this New Year to lose weight. But goal setting is the easy part. Staying on the weight loss track and maintaining that weight loss is where the challenges begin.

Here are 10 tips to help you stick with your weight loss resolution this New Year and beyond.

• Drink up: Hunger and thirst can often be confused, so stay hydrated. But remember, beverages are not a place to splurge on a ton of calories. Drink water. For a flavor boost, add fresh fruit slices or mint leaves.

• Snack mindfully: It is all too easy to derail an otherwise flawless diet by binging at snack time. Be mindful of your snacks, and make sure they offer nutritional value and are designed to keep you satisfied until your next meal.

• Sleep: Studies show a link between sleep deprivation and excess pounds. While there are many theories as to why this is, at the very least, getting enough sleep will promote clear-headed, healthful choices throughout the day.

• Jumpstart your weight loss: Studies show that early weight loss is a predictor of longterm success. Look for programs that keep you motivated, like Nutrisystem Turbo10, which delivers up to a 10-pound weight loss and up to five inches lost overall in the first month of dieting.

• Eat small: Research suggests that eating smaller, balanced meals throughout

the day promotes greater weight loss and maintenance. Schedule meals every two to three hours, six times a day.

• Get moving: Exercise doesn’t have to be daunting! Get started with 10-minute sessions, three times a day. Movement sets your metabolism in motion so make sure it’s a consistent part of your weight loss efforts.

are available seven days a week.

For more information, visit Nutrisystem.com.

With the right attitude and the right tools, you can make 2016 the year you finally lose the weight for good.

• Eat out, right: Restaurant portions can be monstrous. Set aside half the meal and save it for later. Avoid key menu terms like “breaded,” “fried,” “crispy,” and “smothered.” At buffets, fill your first plate up entirely with greens before moving on to other options.

• Embrace setbacks: Sometimes diets get temporarily thrown off course by a missed workout or a second slice of birthday cake. Rather than throwing in the towel entirely, view the setback for what it really is, a temporary hiccup.

• Be accountable: Keep a food and exercise diary to reinforce good habits. Log food, drinks, activity, weight and more to stay accountable.

• Seek support: Weight loss and maintenance is no cakewalk. Turn to weight loss counselors, dietitians and online communities for support with your weight loss journey. The counselors at Nutrisystem for example,

Family Ideals Remain Consistent in Changing Times

Is Your Life in Balance?

Healthy Habits to Try in 2016

(StatePoint) Is your life in balance? The new year is a great time to take stock of your routine and make improvements where necessary.

Here are some thoughtful habits to consider incorporating into your day in the coming year.

Find Time to Decompress

• If you’re a morning person, get out of bed 30 minutes earlier than normal to wake up with your favorite coffee or tea and think about what you need to accomplish for the day.

• More of a night owl? Spend at least 30 minutes before going to sleep to unplug from technology and relax with a new book you’ve had on your list to read.

• Schedule time for exercise to reduce stress and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Planning workouts ahead of time will make you more likely to stick to them.

Write Everything Down • Handwritten notes and to-do lists will reinforce your memory of the tasks you need to conquer. They also give you the option to look at what you need to do for the day and prioritize the list. Consider a personal planner, such as those from the popular AT-A-GLANCE collection, which includes a variety of styles that reflect your personality and organizational needs.

• Documenting your day not only keeps you organized, but also provides you with an opportunity to look back and reflect on your life’s accomplishments, memories and milestones from the year.

Balanced Diet, Balanced Life • Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet will help you feel great, and can increase your focus, energy levels and productivity.

• Plan out your meals ahead of time before going shopping by marking them in a calendar.

This will give you more time during the week to cook and prepare meals, without having to make frequent trips to the store or feel tempted to grab take-out. You’ll be more likely to stick with the habit if you love the calendar you use, so consider something easy on the eyes, such as an AT-A-GLANCE fashion planner.

• Cooking your own fresh meals can help keep your bank account balanced, and is often much healthier than food from a restaurant. And spending time in the kitchen is also a stress reliever for some people.

Make a fresh start -- the beginning of a new year is the perfect time to make positive changes to how you schedule and organize your time.

(StatePoint) While the concept of family once had quite specific meaning, the face of families in the US today is more diverse and wide-ranging than ever, yet their values and challenges remain the same.

Results from the latest census found that the traditional, nuclear, one-momone-dad-with-kids family model is actually the minority now. However, families of all shapes and sizes share similar ethics and face related struggles, whether they are drawn together by biological ties or a deeply rooted friendship.

Here, some heads of households share some insights into what defines a family and their concerns: You Define Your Family “Home is where your story begins, and family is a part of that story. It’s who we are and what we give to others that determines our value within ourselves,” says Melanie Harper, a teacher and divorced mother of two boys.

As part of the #RealFamiliesRealValues campaign sponsored by White Cloud Bathroom Tissue, at Walmart. Harper and her two sons were featured in a video where she discussed the challenges and rewards of raising children on her own. The campaign’s goal is to capture and share the things most important about family, and White Cloud is encouraging the full range of American’s families to tell their stories.

“I don’t have to try to be a father. I can just be the best mother that I can,” says Harper. “My main concern is that my boys are happy.

You’re Normal “Single moms are part of the fabric of life,” says Emma Johnson, the brains behind Wealthy Single Mother, a blog for single moms where they can get advice and connect. “We’re everywhere!

In middle class communities, poor rural

communities, rich suburbs, and in every part of every city. We are loaded and we are poor. We run companies, own businesses, nurse, teach, farm, stay at home full-time and work in factories.”

Johnson stresses that while the typical message out there is that it’s possible to survive as a single parent, you can go beyond that and truly thrive, and many families are doing just that.

Luckily, there are new TV shows, books and even home product brands out there like White Cloud that are working to change the discourse and be inclusive to all kinds of families.

While the iconic American family may not look the same as it did in the past, the same values of kindness, strength and love remain.

praise connect

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan 5, 2016

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Second Ebenezer Church blesses Cass Corridor

By Nicole Black

his ministry out into the streets of the Cass Corridor.

Second Ebenezer Church, under the leadership of Bishop Edgar Vann II, took ministering to the streets. Detroit has, and continues, to face tough times with crime, drugs and homelessness as well as the overall lack of treatment for the mentally ill.

Second Ebenezer demonstrated their willingness to give back to the community by providing 125 blankets, 125 lunches and more than 300 hats, gloves and socks to residents and homeless in the area.

However, Bishop Vann and his congregants say there is an opportunity to help with Detroit’s recovery, and it starts with the gift of giving. After the Christmas Eve service at Second Ebenezer Church on Thursday, Dec. 24, he took

Second Ebenezer Church continues to share with the community through its Feed the Children program which feeds over 5000 people at Thanksgiving. Bishop Vann and Second Ebenezer Church are grateful to God for being able to be a blessing to the community.

Wings of Love Christmas Day feeding

By Nicole Black Pastor Alvin Jackson Sr. and the Wings of Love Youth Ministry Church put ministry into practice. The youth ministry, formally known as the IROC Ministry led by Rev. Jackson Jr., fed over 300 homeless people and gave them special Christmas gifts on Christmas Day at Wings of Love Ministries.

The IROC Ministry is a youth ministry with members between the ages of 13 and 21. Youth leader Rev. Alvin Jackson Jr. asked the young members to be a blessing and a benefactor to the homeless, as well as show them the importance of being a blessing to others.

The IROC Ministry took great joy in

serving those who are in need by sharing stories and themselves through the exemplification of their love of God. Jackson stated that Wings of Love Ministries will always be a beacon of light that will shine bright on the corner of John R. and Six Mile Road. He emphasized that even in the midst of prostitution, drugs and crime which plague the area, the congregation and church will remain focused and dedicated to taking care of the community.

Wings of Love Ministries remains focused on the goals of soul saving and being a blessing, as well as continuing to making a difference.

For more information regarding the feeding program at Wings of Love Ministries, please call (312) 867-4700.

William Franklin Guest He was known affectionately as “Cousin Red” and sang with the legendary group Gladys Knight and the Pips from their inception in 1953 to 1989 when the group disbanded.

William Franklin Guest, born July 2, 1941, in Atlanta, Georgia, made his transition on Dec. 24, 2015.

Guest. Patten died in 2005.

Among the decades of hits

by Gladys Knight and the Pips were “Every Beat of My Heart,” “I Heard it Through the Grapevine,” “If I Were Your Woman,” “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “On and On,” “Neither One of Us (Wants to be the First to Say Goodbye),” “Friendship Train” and “Save the Overtime (For Me).” Another of their biggest hits, “I Don’t Want to do Wrong,” was co-written by Mr. Guest.

Gladys Knight and the Pips, winners of Grammys, American Music Awards, Soul Train Music Awards and inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, was a family group, with Knight joined by her brother, Merald “Bubba” Knight, and At one point, Mr. Patten and Mr. their cousins, Edward Patten and William Guest formed Patten and Guest Productions and produced other artists and marketed products. Mr. Guest also became owner of Crew Records. In addition, he wrote his autobiography with sister-in-law Dame Dhyana Ziegler titled Services for Mary D. Evans were held “Midnight Train FROM Georgia: A Pips on Dec. 22 at Wilson-Akins Funeral Journey.”

Home with Rev. Robert O. Dulin, Jr. offi- “My heart is broken, but I know his ciating. Mrs. Evans passed legacy will live on,” said his daughter, away on Dec. 15, 2015.

Monique Guest.

Mary D. Denham was born on Sept. 22, Gladys Knight said, “We tried using 1934 in Forest, Mississippi to Agrinoldow our gifts of music in a way that would a n d Desaree Denham, the please God,” and asked God to look afthird of their three ter him. children. When the family moved to Funeral arrangements were not comDetroit in 1942, plete at press time, but they are being she attended handled by Swanson Funeral Home.

Detroit Public Schools and later the Detroit Business Institute where she earned a certification in accounting.

Mary D. Evans

Now Mary Evans, she worked for the M i c h i g a n Chronicle for over three decades and after leaving there worked for seven years at the Detroit Area Agency on Aging.

Wilson-Akins Funeral Home handled all arrangements.

Interment took ­Memorial Gardens.

place

at

United

Are you hosting a concert or faithfriendly event?

Are you celebrating an anniversary or special occasion?

She loved traveling, interior decorating and music.

Left to cherish memory of Mary Evans are her children, Michael, Sr., Valerie, Jeanine and Paula; her grandchildren, Nikki, Michael, Jr., Kevin, Jr. and Marcus; her sister, Hazel Gaye; and many other family members and friends.

PRAISE CONNECT

Dr. Daniel K. Holloway Funeral services for Dr. Daniel K. Holloway will take place on Saturday, Jan. 2, 11 am, at Plymouth United Church of Christ, 600 E. Warren Ave. Family hour starts at 10 am. Public viewing will be at Swanson Funeral Home, 14751 W. McNichols Rd., on Thursday, Dec. 31, from noon to 6 p.m.

PROMOTE IT HERE! Contact us at: nblack@realtimesmedia.com 313.963.5522

Page D-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Dec. 30, 2015 - Jan. 5, 2016